Black Prince
90d to harvest
Sink your spoon into the velvety, smoky-sweet allure of Black Prince—an heirloom-style beefsteak tomato with rich, wine-dark shoulders and a deep, rosy interior that tastes as lush as it looks. The flesh is meaty and juicy with a balanced, slightly tangy finish, ideal for showcasing in bold slices and thick wedges that hold their shape beautifully. Grow this 90-day standout for a dramatic harvest from late summer into early fall, where each fruit becomes a centerpiece-worthy centerpiece in the garden and the bowl.
Crop Dates
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Start Indoors | Dec 22nd |
| Last Frost | Feb 9th |
| Transplant / Sow Outdoors | Apr 6th |
| Harvest Begins | Jul 5th |
| Harvest Ends | Dec 9th |
Crop Details
| Trait | Value |
|---|---|
| Days to Maturity | 90 |
| Sun Requirements | Full Sun |
| Growth Habit | Indeterminate |
| Support Needed | Cage |
| Planting Depth | Deep |
| Germination Temp (°F) | 75 |
| Min Soil Temp (°F) | 60 |
| Min Night Temp (°F) | 50 |
| Harden Off (days) | 10 |
Recommended Companions
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes leaf spots on Black Prince (eggplant) and how do I stop it?
Leaf spots are often caused by early blight/cercospora or other fungal leaf diseases that spread quickly in warm, humid conditions. Remove and discard any heavily spotted leaves, then spray the underside of foliage with a labeled fungicide for eggplant/leaf spot and improve airflow by spacing plants and watering at the soil line. Keep leaves as dry as possible—wet foliage and nighttime humidity are what drive new spots.
When is Black Prince eggplant ready to harvest?
Harvest when fruits are fully colored (deep purple-black with a glossy sheen) and reach about 6–8 inches long, typically around 80–90 days from transplanting. Pick fruit as soon as it’s the right size because eggplant becomes seedy and tougher when left on the plant too long. Use pruning shears to cut with a short stem, leaving the plant ready to set the next fruits.