Question
QUESTION: This is my first attempt at growing eggplant and it seems to be healthy. My problem is it is bearing fruit already that is touching the ground. I've read that it can reach heights of 4 feet but mine is only 67 inches tall! What can I do....

ANSWER: Kathy:

At 67 inches you are already over 5 feet tall with your egg plants.

If they are tending to fall over you will need to carfully stake them.

Best wishes.

Don

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Don,
Thank you so very much for your quick reply. I made an error...it should say 6 inches and not 67! While the plant is getting bushy with new foliage and purple flowers, it doesn't seem to want to grow taller. The fruit is approx. 2 inches. Do you think I should put straw under the fruit so it does not touch the soil and hope for the best? Any and all help with this is much appreciated.

Kathy

Answer
Kathy:

Putting straw around the base of the plant works well. It retains the moisture and helps keep the weeds out. It will also protect the fruit that is touching the ground. Some of these plants really become wilder as they get larger. I have seen some that are 48 inches tall.

It sounds to me like your plants are normal and you just have to wait awhile before they fill out. I think they will be fine.

Best wishes.

Don