also known as eggplant or aubergine. Brinjal is a tropical vegetable that requires a hot and humid climate, full sunlight, and well-drained soil. Here are some steps to grow brinjal in containers or garden beds.

• Start with sowing seeds indoors in peat pots, about 6-8 weeks before the last spring frost. The seeds need a temperature of 70° to 90°F (21° to 32°C) to germinate. You can also buy transplants from a nursery, but avoid spindly or tall plants that are already flowering.
• When the frost season is over and the daytime temperature is above 70° to 75°F (60° to 65°F at night), transplant the seedlings outdoors, 24-30 inches apart in rows. Choose a sunny spot and prepare the soil by adding compost, manure, and fertilizer. The soil pH should be between 5.8 and 6.5.
• Water the plants regularly, keeping the soil moist but not soggy. Apply a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. Stake the plants if they are taller than 24 inches, to support the heavy fruits. For bigger fruits, limit the number of fruits per plant to five or six.
• Harvest the brinjals when they are young and firm, before they turn dull and seedy. Cut them off with a sharp knife, leaving some stem attached. You can store them in a cool and dry place for up to a week.