Blog

When to Plant Eggplant in Wisconsin

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.

Wisconsin spans USDA hardiness zones 5a, 5b (with planting data available), so planting dates vary by your location within the state. Click your zone below for the most accurate dates.

Find Your County

Click your county for exact Eggplant planting dates based on your local frost dates.

Eggplant Planting Calendar for Wisconsin

Zone 5a ~166 day growing season · Full guide →

Last frost: April 25 · First frost: October 8 · 166 day season

Activity When Date Range
Start Indoors February 14 Feb 14 – Feb 28
Transplant Outdoors May 9 May 9 – May 23
Direct Sow May 2 May 2 – May 23
Harvest July 18 Jul 18 – Sep 19
Zone 5b ~178 day growing season · Full guide →

Last frost: April 18 · First frost: October 13 · 178 day season

Activity When Date Range
Start Indoors February 7 Feb 7 – Feb 21
Transplant Outdoors May 2 May 2 – May 16
Direct Sow April 25 Apr 25 – May 16
Harvest July 11 Jul 11 – Sep 12

Growing Tips for Wisconsin

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I plant Eggplant in Wisconsin?

Planting dates for Eggplant in Wisconsin depend on your USDA zone. Wisconsin spans zones 5a, 5b. Check the planting calendar above for your specific zone's frost dates and planting windows.

What zone is Wisconsin for planting?

Wisconsin contains USDA hardiness zones 5a, 5b. Your specific zone depends on your location within the state — northern and higher-elevation areas are in colder zones, while southern and coastal areas are warmer.

Data sources: USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map (2023), NOAA 30-Year Climate Normals, University Cooperative Extension planting guides. Last updated: April 2026.