Best Eggplants to Grow in Florida
Florida spans USDA Zones 8–11, typically Zone 9. We've broken out 29 eggplant varieties by zone — pick your zone below or find the right varieties for your specific part of the state.
Varieties
29
for Florida
USDA
Zones 8–11
240–365 days season
Beginner
12
easy to grow
Heirloom
15
heritage varieties
Florida in USDA Zones 8–11
Florida spans Zones 8–11. Variety lists below are organized by zone — start with your zone for the most accurate recommendations.
Growing Eggplants in Florida
Zone 9 is nearly ideal for eggplant growing, offering one of the longest growing seasons in the continental US with almost 10 months between frosts. This extended warm period means you can grow both quick-maturing varieties for multiple harvests and slow-developing heirloom types that need extra time to reach full flavor. The challenge isn't cold—it's managing the intense summer heat that can stress plants and reduce fruit set during July and August peaks.
When selecting varieties for Zone 9, prioritize heat tolerance and disease resistance, particularly for bacterial wilt and spider mites that thrive in your warm, humid conditions. Look for varieties that can handle temperature swings and maintain production through your long season. The eggplants listed here have proven themselves in Zone 9's unique combination of extended warmth, occasional late cold snaps, and intense summer heat.
Zone 9 Eggplants for Florida★ Most of FL
29 varieties · Last frost February 15 · 290-day season
Zone 8 Eggplants for Florida
29 varieties · Last frost March 15 · 240-day season
Zone 10 Eggplants for Florida
29 varieties · Last frost January 31 · 320-day season
Zone 11 Eggplants for Florida
29 varieties · Year-round growing
Zone 9 Growing Tips for Florida
Start seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before your last frost date, which puts seed starting in mid-December for Zone 9. This timing gives you sturdy transplants ready to go out after February 15, when soil temperatures consistently stay above 60°F. Don't rush transplanting—eggplants are extremely sensitive to cold soil and will sulk for weeks if planted too early, even if air temperatures seem warm.
Your biggest advantage is the ability to succession plant. Set out your main crop in early March, then plant a second round in early May for fall harvest. During peak summer heat (July-August), provide afternoon shade using row covers or plant taller companions like okra or pole beans. Consistent deep watering is crucial since stressed plants drop flowers and produce bitter fruit. Mulch heavily to keep soil temperatures stable and conserve moisture during your long, hot summers.