When to plant Eggplant in Lowndes County, AL
Spring Eggplant in Lowndes County goes in March 22–April 12, once nighttime temps stop dipping near freezing.
When to Plant Eggplant in Lowndes County, AL
This month in Lowndes County, Alabama
We've pulled the most time-sensitive tasks for Lowndes County, Alabama this July and put them front and centre. Tackle them in order.
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Basket week: eggplant
Check every 1–2 days. Many of these get tough or go to seed if you wait too long.
Coming up in August — start thinking about
- First harvests: eggplant
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.
Lowndes County, Alabama is in USDA Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 15 and the first fall frost is November 13, giving you a growing season of approximately 243 days.
At an elevation of 392 feet, Lowndes County receives approximately 57.6 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.
Lowndes County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
5.5-6.5
Drainage
Well Drained
Eggplant 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.
Soil Compatibility in Lowndes County
How your county's soil matches Eggplant's growing requirements.
Soil pH
Your soil pH (5.5–6.5) is within Eggplant's preferred range (5.5–7.0).
Soil Texture
The clay loam soil in Lowndes County is excellent for Eggplant — good drainage, moisture retention, and nutrient holding capacity.
Organic Matter
Organic matter is moderate (2.3%). Annual compost additions will help Eggplant.
How to Plant Eggplant
Succession Planting Eggplant
Sow every 7.4 weeks. Last sowing by Aug 20 to harvest before frost.
Eggplant Water Budget
Monthly Watering Guide for Eggplant
Eggplant needs approximately 1.1 inches of water per week (4.8" per month). Here's how your county's rainfall compares month by month.
| Month | Eggplant Needs | Rainfall | You Supplement | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | — | 4.8" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 4" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | 4.8" | 5.2" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Apr | 4.8" | 4.1" | 0.7" | 💧 Light watering |
| May | 4.8" | 4.6" | 0.2" | 💧 Light watering |
| Jun | 4.8" | 4.9" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jul | 4.8" | 6" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Aug | 4.8" | 6.2" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Sep | 4.8" | 4.6" | 0.2" | 💧 Light watering |
| Oct | 4.8" | 3.9" | 0.9" | 💧 Light watering |
| Nov | 4.8" | 4.9" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Dec | — | 4.4" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Mar–Nov in Lowndes County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Eggplant Heat Requirements (GDD)
What are Growing Degree Days (GDD)?
Growing Degree Days measure the total warmth your plants receive during the growing season. Think of it as a "heat bank" — every day above 50°F deposits warmth that helps your plants grow.
Each plant needs a certain amount of accumulated heat to mature. If your county provides more GDD than the plant needs, it's a great fit. If it's close, you may want to choose faster-maturing varieties or start seeds indoors to get a head start.
Eggplant Planting Timeline — Lowndes County, AL
Eggplant Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | January 11 | Jan 11 – Jan 25 |
| Transplant Outdoors | March 29 | Mar 29 – Apr 12 |
| Direct Sow | March 22 | Mar 22 – Apr 12 |
| Harvest | June 7 | Jun 7 – Aug 9 |
Plant 1" deep · 30" apart · Rows 42" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | Start Indoors |
| February | — |
| March | Transplant Outdoors 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
1.1"/week · Only during dry spells
📅 Days to Maturity
65–85 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 5.5–7 · Your soil: ideal
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 8b
📆 Growing Season
243 days in Lowndes County
Growing Tips for Eggplant in Lowndes County
Direct sow Eggplant outdoors after March 15 in Lowndes County when soil has warmed and frost danger has passed.
With Lowndes County's clay soil (26% clay), work in 3-4 inches of compost before planting Eggplant. Avoid tilling when soil is wet to prevent compaction.
Common pests for Eggplant in this region include tomato hornworm and aphids. Use row covers early in the season and inspect plants weekly.
General growing tips
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 Lowndes County, AL?
Lowndes County is in Zone 8b with an average last frost of March 15. Plan your Eggplant planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Lowndes County, AL?
Lowndes County, Alabama is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 15 and first fall frost is November 13.
When should I plant Eggplant in Lowndes County, AL?
In Lowndes County, AL, plant Eggplant after the last frost (around March 15) and before the first frost (around November 13). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Lowndes County, AL for Eggplant?
Lowndes 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 Lowndes County's climate?
Yes — Eggplant grows well in Lowndes County's temperate climate. Lowndes County averages a 243-day frost-free season, with last frost around March 15 and first frost around November 13.
Your Lowndes County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Lowndes 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.