Choose a sunny location with at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily
Use well-draining, fertile soil with a pH of 5.8 to 6.8
Start seeds indoors 8 to 10 weeks before the last frost
Keep seedlings warm at 75 to 85°F for good germination
Harden off seedlings before transplanting outdoors
Transplant after all danger of frost has passed and soil is warm
Space plants 18 to 24 inches apart in rows 24 to 36 inches apart
Mix compost or aged manure into the planting area before planting
Water deeply and consistently to keep soil evenly moist
Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer or one higher in phosphorus and potassium
Stake or cage plants to support heavy fruit
Remove weeds regularly
Watch for pests such as flea beetles, aphids, and hornworms
Harvest fruits when they are firm, glossy, and full-sized but before seeds become hard
Cut fruits from the plant with pruning shears or a sharp knife
Harvest regularly to encourage more production