When to Harvest Black Beauty Eggplant: A Guide for Gardeners

When to Harvest Black Beauty Eggplant

Black Beauty eggplant is a popular variety of eggplant that is known for its dark purple skin and rich flavor. It is a relatively easy-to-grow vegetable that can be harvested in as little as 60 days. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when harvesting Black Beauty eggplant to ensure that you get the best possible results.

In this article, we will discuss the best time to harvest Black Beauty eggplant, as well as how to tell when it is ripe. We will also provide tips on how to store and use your harvested eggplant.

So, if you are growing Black Beauty eggplant, or are thinking about growing it, read on for all the information you need to know about harvesting this delicious vegetable!

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Week Size Harvest
6-8 2-3 inches Young eggplants can be picked when they are 2-3 inches long.
9-10 4-5 inches Eggplants are typically harvested when they are 4-5 inches long.
11-12 6-7 inches Larger eggplants can be picked when they are 6-7 inches long.

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Black Beauty eggplant is a popular variety of eggplant that is known for its dark purple skin and sweet flavor. It is a relatively easy-to-grow vegetable that can be harvested in about 70 days from planting. However, it is important to know when to harvest black beauty eggplant in order to get the best flavor and texture.

Signs of Maturity

There are a few signs that indicate when black beauty eggplant is ready to be harvested.

  • The skin of the eggplant should be glossy and firm.
  • The eggplant should be about 5-6 inches long.
  • The eggplant should be slightly soft to the touch.
  • The eggplant’s stem should start to turn brown.

If you are not sure whether an eggplant is ripe, you can cut it open and check the inside. The flesh should be firm and white, with no signs of bruising or decay.

Harvesting Black Beauty Eggplant

Harvesting black beauty eggplant is a simple process.

1. Cut the eggplant off the plant with a sharp knife.
2. Be sure to leave about 1 inch of stem attached to the eggplant.
3. Store the eggplant in a cool, dry place.

Black beauty eggplant can be stored for up to two weeks in the refrigerator. It can also be frozen for longer storage.

Black beauty eggplant is a delicious and versatile vegetable that can be enjoyed in a variety of dishes. By knowing when to harvest black beauty eggplant, you can ensure that you get the best flavor and texture.

Additional Tips

  • Black beauty eggplant is a heavy feeder, so it is important to fertilize it regularly.
  • Eggplants are susceptible to pests and diseases, so it is important to monitor your plants and take steps to prevent problems.
  • Black beauty eggplant can be cooked in a variety of ways, including roasting, grilling, baking, and frying.

Here are some additional tips for growing and harvesting black beauty eggplant:

  • Choose a sunny spot in your garden for your eggplant plants.
  • The soil should be well-drained and rich in organic matter.
  • Plant your eggplant seeds about 2 inches deep and 1 inch apart.
  • Thin the seedlings to about 1 foot apart once they have sprouted.
  • Water your eggplant plants regularly, especially during dry periods.
  • Fertilize your eggplant plants monthly with a balanced fertilizer.
  • Watch for pests and diseases and take steps to control them if necessary.
  • Harvest your eggplants when they are ripe and enjoy them in a variety of delicious dishes.

When To Harvest Black Beauty Eggplant?

Black Beauty eggplant is a variety of eggplant that is known for its dark purple skin and large, round shape. It is a popular choice for home gardeners because it is easy to grow and produces a large crop. However, it is important to know when to harvest Black Beauty eggplant in order to get the best flavor and texture.

The best time to harvest Black Beauty eggplant is when it is fully mature. This means that the skin should be dark purple and the flesh should be firm and white. The eggplant should also be about 8-10 inches long and 3-4 inches in diameter. If you wait too long to harvest the eggplant, it will become tough and bitter.

To harvest Black Beauty eggplant, simply cut the stem off of the eggplant with a sharp knife. Be sure to leave about 1 inch of stem attached to the eggplant so that it can be stored properly.

Once you have harvested the eggplant, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To extend the shelf life of the eggplant, wrap it in aluminum foil or plastic wrap before storing it in the refrigerator.

Storage Tips for Black Beauty Eggplant

Black Beauty eggplant is a perishable vegetable, so it is important to store it properly in order to extend its shelf life. Here are a few tips for storing Black Beauty eggplant:

  • Store eggplant in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
  • To extend the shelf life of eggplant, wrap it in aluminum foil or plastic wrap before storing it in the refrigerator.
  • Do not store eggplant in a warm, humid place, as this will cause it to spoil quickly.

Uses for Black Beauty Eggplant

Black Beauty eggplant can be used in a variety of dishes, including:

  • Roasted eggplant
  • Grilled eggplant
  • Fried eggplant
  • Eggplant Parmesan
  • Eggplant dip

Here are some recipes that use Black Beauty eggplant:

  • [Roasted Black Beauty Eggplant](https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/24074/roasted-eggplant/)
  • [Grilled Black Beauty Eggplant](https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/grilled-eggplant-with-tahini-dressing)
  • [Fried Black Beauty Eggplant](https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/food-network-kitchen/fried-eggplant-fries-3655268)
  • [Eggplant Parmesan](https://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/classic-eggplant-parmesan/)
  • [Eggplant Dip](https://www.themediterraneandish.com/easy-eggplant-dip/)

Black Beauty eggplant is a delicious and versatile vegetable that can be used in a variety of dishes. By following these tips, you can enjoy fresh, flavorful Black Beauty eggplant all season long.

When is the best time to harvest Black Beauty eggplant?

Black Beauty eggplants are typically ready to harvest when they are about 6 inches long and have a deep purple color. The skin should be smooth and shiny, and the flesh should be firm. To test if an eggplant is ripe, gently squeeze it. If it yields slightly to pressure, it is ready to be picked.

How do I know if an eggplant is bad?

An eggplant that is bad will have a wrinkled skin, a soft texture, and a sour smell. It may also have brown or black spots. If you are not sure if an eggplant is bad, it is best to err on the side of caution and throw it away.

How do I store Black Beauty eggplant?

Black Beauty eggplants can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To store them, place them in a paper bag and put them in the crisper drawer. You can also freeze Black Beauty eggplants for up to 6 months. To freeze them, slice them into 1-inch pieces and place them in a freezer bag. Make sure to remove as much air from the bag as possible before sealing it.

How do I cook Black Beauty eggplant?

Black Beauty eggplant can be cooked in a variety of ways. It can be roasted, grilled, fried, or steamed. Here are a few recipes to get you started:

  • [Roasted Black Beauty Eggplant](https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/roasted-black-beauty-aubergines)
  • [Grilled Black Beauty Eggplant](https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/grilled-eggplant-with-marinara-sauce-and-basil/1943875)
  • [Fried Black Beauty Eggplant](https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/224554/fried-eggplant/)
  • [Steamed Black Beauty Eggplant](https://www.thespruceeats.com/steamed-eggplant-3377592)

What are the nutritional benefits of Black Beauty eggplant?

Black Beauty eggplant is a good source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. It is low in calories and fat, making it a healthy addition to any diet. Here are some of the nutritional benefits of Black Beauty eggplant:

  • Vitamin C: Black Beauty eggplant is a good source of vitamin C, which is an antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage.
  • Potassium: Black Beauty eggplant is a good source of potassium, which is important for heart health.
  • Fiber: Black Beauty eggplant is a good source of fiber, which can help promote regularity and digestive health.

Are there any health risks associated with eating Black Beauty eggplant?

There are no known health risks associated with eating Black Beauty eggplant. However, it is important to note that eggplants can be high in oxalates, which can cause kidney stones in some people. If you are concerned about your oxalate intake, talk to your doctor about how much eggplant you can safely eat.

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Author Profile

Arthur Cook
Arthur Cook
Meet Arthur Cook, the heart and soul behind Plant4Harvest.com. Arthur’s story is deeply rooted in the rich soil of a small American town, where the horizon is wide, and the values of hard work and connection to the land run deep. Born and raised in the quaint town of Elkmont, Alabama, Arthur’s journey in agriculture began in the sprawling fields of his family’s farm, a stone’s throw away from the Tennessee border.

Arthur’s thirst for agricultural knowledge led him to Auburn University, where he majored in Agricultural Science. During his college years, Arthur dedicated his summers to working on local farms, gaining practical experience in modern farming techniques. His academic and real-world experiences combined to give him a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities in American agriculture.

Arthur Cook is more than just a farmer; he is an advocate for sustainable agriculture and a mentor to the next generation of farmers. Through Plant4Harvest.com, he continues to inspire, educate, and engage with a community of individuals who share his love for the land and commitment to preserving it for future generations.