Seed Depth: 1/4 inch

Seed Spacing: 18–24 inches

Row Spacing: 24–36 inches

Sunlight: Full sun

Days to Sprout: 7–14 days

Days to Maturity: 70–80 days

Growth Habit: Upright, bushy annual

Sunlight: Requires full sun, with at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily.

Soil Type: Prefers rich, well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0–6.8. Add compost or organic matter to enhance fertility.

When to Plant: Start seeds indoors 8–10 weeks before the last frost. Transplant outdoors when temperatures are consistently above 60°F.

Direct Sowing: Not recommended due to the long growing season.

Indoor Sowing: Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep in seed trays or pots. Transplant seedlings when they are 4–6 inches tall.

Succession Planting: Not typically needed; plants produce steadily once they begin fruiting.

Watering: Water deeply and consistently, keeping the soil evenly moist but not soggy. Mulch helps retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.

Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer or compost at planting and again mid-season to encourage strong growth and fruit production.

Pruning: Remove lower leaves to improve airflow and support fruit production. Stake plants if needed to prevent fruit from touching the ground.

Pest and Disease Control: Watch for flea beetles, aphids, and spider mites. Use row covers or organic pest controls to minimize damage.

When to Harvest: Harvest fruits when they are 8–10 inches long, firm, and glossy, typically 70–80 days after planting.

How to Harvest: Use a sharp knife or scissors to cut fruits from the plant, leaving a short stem attached. Avoid pulling fruits to prevent plant damage.

Seed Collection: Allow some fruits to fully ripen on the plant. Scoop seeds from mature fruits, rinse, and dry thoroughly.

Storing Seeds: Store seeds in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.