Turkish Orange Eggplant (Heirloom 80 days)

Turkish Heirloom. Originally from Turkey, the Turkish Orange Eggplant is quite popular in all the Mediterranean countries. It produces dozens of 2 oz, orange-red fruit that resemble small tomatoes. Plants are very tall, as much as 4’ and it is reported that the fruits are best eaten when still green or beginning to change color. 

30 seeds

PLANTING

Solanum melongena

Germination: 5-14 days

Germination Temperature: Optimum soil temperatures 75-90ºF. Cooler soil temperatures increase germination time.

Seed Sowing Depth: ¼” deep

Starting Indoors:  8-10 weeks before the last frost. Sow in flats/cells/pots. Provide 75-90ºF soil temperatures. Fertilize the seedlings every 7-10 days with a liquid or water-soluble fertilizer (diluted to ¼ of suggested measurement). Transplant seedlings 18-24” apart after the last frost.

How much does a packet plant: 25-30 foot single row  

Harvest: When fruit is shiny and smooth, before losing its luster. Use a sharp instrument to cut the eggplants from the plant. Pick the first fruits when they reach usable size, this helps accelerate the growth of the other eggplants on the plant. 

Tips: The Turkish Orange Eggplant should be planted in fertile soil, and amended with compost if needed. It helps to use row cover early in the season, giving the plants extra warmth, especially in the north. Side dress when flowers begin to form.