aubergine

Plant Height   

Up to 75cm/ 30" 

Time between sowing and harvesting   

About 20 weeks

Sowing time   

Late Feb - April - temperature  +18C/64F

Where to Sow   

Indoors in small pots 7.5cm/3" diameter filled with compost. 

How to Sow   

2 seeds per pot - 6mm/1/4-inch deep. Germination takes up to 21 days

After Germination   

Remove the weakest seedling

Growing on -  in Pots   

Harden off plants and finally move outdoors once all danger of frost has passed. Once the plants are established with a good root system,  pot up individual plants into 20cm/8" containers (min) or 2 per growbag, in a hot sheltered sunny position. Pinch out growing tips when plants reach 30cm/12-inches. Stake plants.

Growing on- in ground   

As above but plant  in beds or borders 45cm/ 18" apart. 

Aftercare   

Water regularly, but do not keep the compost very wet. Fine spraying of plants with water  helps encourage fruit to set. Limit to 5 or 6 fruits per plant. Once the fruit start to swell, feed with tomato food  each time you water. 

Harvesting   

Cut fruit as needed  once they have reach a good size and colour (between 10-17cm/4-7" depending on the variety)  but before the shine disappears from the skin. Crops over about 8 weeks.