When to plant Eggplant in Covington County, AL
In Covington County, plant Eggplant in spring between March 27 and April 17, once soil temps hold above 50°F. Covington County's last frost averages March 20, so most warm-season crops establish quickly once soil holds above 60°F. For a fall crop, sow between and — roughly 65–85 days before the first frost on November 11.
When to Plant Eggplant in Covington County, AL
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.
Covington County, Alabama is in USDA Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 20 and the first fall frost is November 11, giving you a growing season of approximately 236 days.
At an elevation of 392 feet, Covington County receives approximately 50.6 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay loam soil. Summer highs average 95°F, so Eggplant may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. Clay soil retains moisture well for Eggplant, but amend with compost to improve drainage and prevent root rot. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Eggplant root diseases.
Covington County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
How Much Eggplant to Grow
For a family of 4, plant approximately 8 eggplant plants in about 16 sq ft. In Covington County's 236-day season, you'll have plenty of time for a full harvest. Plan your garden layout →
Eggplant Planting Timeline — Covington County, AL
Eggplant Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | January 16 | Jan 16 – Jan 30 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 3 | Apr 3 – Apr 17 |
| Direct Sow | March 27 | Mar 27 – Apr 17 |
| Harvest | June 12 | Jun 12 – Aug 14 |
Plant 1" deep · 30" apart · Rows 42" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | Start Indoors |
| February | — |
| March | Direct Sow |
| April | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| May | — |
| June | Harvest |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
Moderate — regular watering
📅 Days to Maturity
65–85 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 5.5–7 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 8b
📆 Growing Season
236 days in Covington County
Growing Tips for Covington 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
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Eggplant in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Eggplant in Covington County, AL?
Covington County is in Zone 8b with an average last frost of March 20. Plan your Eggplant planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Covington County, AL?
Covington County, Alabama is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 20 and first fall frost is November 11.
When should I plant Eggplant in Covington County, AL?
In Covington County, AL, plant Eggplant after the last frost (around March 20) and before the first frost (around November 11). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Covington County, AL for Eggplant?
Covington County sits in USDA Zone 8b. Eggplant grows reliably in zones 5a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Eggplant grow in Covington County's climate?
Yes — Eggplant grows well in Covington County's temperate climate. Covington County averages a 236-day frost-free season, with last frost around March 20 and first frost around November 11.
Your Covington County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Covington County (Zone 8b). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.