How to Grow Mini Eggplant Using a Hydroponic System for Beginners
Basic Data
- ☀ Ideal Temperature: Mini Eggplant prefers warm temperatures between 75°F to 85°F.
- 🌱 Germination Time: Usually takes 7 to 14 days to germinate.
- 📅 Time to Maturity: Typically matures in about 60 to 80 days.
Germination Steps
- Step 1: Soak the planting sponge and gently squeeze out excess moisture.
- Step 2: Place mini eggplant seeds into the damp sponge.
- Step 3: Keep in a warm environment until seeds germinate.
- Step 4: Move the sponge with the sprouted seeds to the Growneer hydroponic system.
Growing Process
Light Requirements Table
| Stage | Light Duration | Light Spectrum | Light Intensity |
| Germination | Not required | Not applicable | Not applicable |
| Seedling | 14-16 hours/day | Full spectrum | 200-300 µmol/m²/s |
| Vegetative | 16-18 hours/day | Full spectrum | 300-500 µmol/m²/s |
| Mature | 16-18 hours/day | Full spectrum | 300-500 µmol/m²/s |
- 💧 Water Pump Volume and Duration: Set to cycle every 20 minutes.
- 🔧 pH Value: 5.5 to 6.5.
- 🍼 Nutrient Ratio:
- Nitrogen: 200 parts per million
- Phosphorus: 100 parts per million
- Potassium: 250 parts per million
- Calcium: 150 parts per million
- Magnesium: 75 parts per million
- Trace Elements: Include Iron, Manganese, Zinc at 2 parts per million each as needed.
Plant Benefits
- High Yield: Mini eggplants can produce a large number of fruits per plant.
- Compact Size: Ideal for small spaces and vertical hydroponic systems.
- Nutritional Value: Rich in fiber, vitamins B1 and B6, and potassium.
Conclusion
Mini eggplants are perfect for hydroponic beginners who wish to expand their garden with something unique yet manageable. This vegetable offers not only nutritional benefits but also the pleasure of watching beautiful purple fruits develop right before your eyes. With the right conditions, your hydroponic system can become a prolific source of fresh mini eggplants, adding variety and flavor to your meals.