Garden egg farming, commonly known as eggplant farming, is a profitable venture in Nigeria. Here’s a detailed guide on the process:

1. Site Selection

- Location: Choose a well-drained site with good sunlight. Garden eggs thrive in areas with at least 6 hours of sunlight daily.

- Soil: The soil should be loamy, rich in organic matter, and have a pH range of 5.5 to 7.0. Conduct a soil test to determine nutrient needs and soil health.

2. Land Preparation

- Clearing: Clear the land of weeds, rocks, and debris.

- Tillage: Plow the land to a depth of about 15-20 cm to loosen the soil. This improves aeration and root growth.

- Beds and Rows: Create raised beds or rows if necessary. Garden eggs are often grown in rows with adequate spacing to allow for plant growth.

3. Seed Selection

- Varieties: Choose high-yielding and disease-resistant varieties. Common varieties in Nigeria include Black Beauty, Nigerian, and Long Purple.

- Source: Obtain seeds from reliable suppliers or seed banks to ensure quality and germination rates.

4. Seed Sowing/Seedling Production

- Seed Sowing: Seeds can be sown directly into the soil or in seedbeds. If starting in seedbeds, use a well-draining mix.

- Seedling Care: Water seedlings regularly and provide shade if necessary. Transplant seedlings when they are about 6-8 weeks old or when they have 4-6 true leaves.

5. Transplanting

- Timing: Transplant seedlings to the main field when they are strong enough and the risk of frost has passed.

- Spacing: Space plants about 60-90 cm apart in rows that are 90-120 cm apart. This spacing allows for adequate growth and airflow.

6. Crop Management

- Watering: Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Avoid overhead watering to reduce disease risk.

- Fertilization: Apply balanced fertilizers (e.g., NPK 15-15-15) according to soil test recommendatio