When to Plant Eggplant in Mercer County, KY
Eggplant is a heat-loving solanaceous crop that produces glossy fruits in purple, white, or striped varieties. It requires long, warm growing seasons for best production.
Mercer County, Kentucky is in USDA Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 13 and the first fall frost is October 26, giving you a growing season of approximately 196 days.
At an elevation of 1,559 feet, Mercer County receives approximately 54.4 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 90°F, providing good warmth for Eggplant during the growing season. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Eggplant root diseases.
Mercer County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.5-6.6
Drainage
Well Drained
Plant Planting Risk Windows
Percentages indicate frost risk at transplant. The 70% safe window means there is a 30% chance of frost after transplant — suitable for cold-hardy crops or gardeners with frost protection. The 90% safe window is best for tender plants.
Plant Water Budget
Water stress score is 6/10 — consider drought-tolerant varieties and mulching
Eggplant Planting Timeline — Mercer County, KY
Eggplant Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | February 2 | Feb 2 – Feb 16 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 27 | Apr 27 – May 11 |
| Direct Sow | April 20 | Apr 20 – May 11 |
| Harvest | July 6 | Jul 6 – Sep 7 |
Plant 1" deep · 30" apart · Rows 42" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | Start Indoors |
| March | — |
| April | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| May | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| June | — |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| September | Harvest |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
Water
Moderate — regular watering
Days to Maturity
65–85 days
Soil pH
5.5 – 7
USDA Zone
Zone 6b
Growing Season
196 days
Growing Tips for Mercer County
Start seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before last frost. Transplant only after nighttime temperatures stay above 55F. Mulch to retain moisture and warmth around roots.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Level Up Your Garden
Eggplant in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Eggplant in Mercer County, KY?
Mercer County is in Zone 6b with an average last frost of April 13. Plan your Eggplant planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Mercer County, KY?
Mercer County, Kentucky is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 13 and first fall frost is October 26.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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