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Eggplant flowering #841809

Asked July 21, 2023, 8:15 AM EDT

My eggplants tend to have 1 round of flowers and then no more for the season.

Lamoille County Vermont

Expert Response

Dear Mary,

Thank you for reaching out to the UVM Extension Master Gardener Program with your question.

There are several factors that can effect blossom production in eggplants:

  1. Very high (> 90 degrees F) or very low temperatures (< 60 degrees F) can result in decrease in blossom and fruit production.
  2. Water – eggplants should be watered deeply but infrequently. Aim for 1 -2 inches of water per week. Too little or too much water can result in decreased blossom and fruit production. In addition eggplants do not thrive in high humidity.
  3. Light – plants that receive < 6 hours of sun may not bloom.
  4. Excessive nitrogen fertilization- can result in vigorous growth but little flower production.
  5. Harvesting – leaving mature fruit on the plant can result in decreased blossom and fruit production

In view of the fact that we have been seeing record rainfall in Vermont I would be most concerned that excess water may be playing a role in your lack of blossom production in your eggplants. Hopefully with drier weather you will see your plants start to bloom again. Being careful not to over fertilize, and harvesting fruits promptly may also help promote blossom production.

Poor Blossom and Fruit Set of Vegetables | University of Maryland Extension (umd.edu)

Mary, UVM Extension Master Gardener Volunteer Replied July 23, 2023, 9:58 PM EDT

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