Eggplant

Common Name: Eggplant is also known as aubergine

Botanical Name: Solanum melongena

When to Sow: Spring - early Summer

Planting Position: Prefers rich well-drained soil and sunny sheltered spot. Use a short stake in exposed areas.

Days to Germinate: 10-14 days

Ready to Harvest:  12-16 weeks

Lifespan: Annual - Lasts one year

Fertilise:  When seedlings are about a week old feed fortnightly with a liquid fertiliser. Tomato food is also good for eggplants

Did you know?

There are 25 calories in 100 grams of Eggplant. It is composed of 92% water, 6% carbohydrates, 1% protein, and negligible fat.

Eggplant is a very good source of dietary fibre and many other nutrients.

Eggplant health - yellowing of leaves can some times mean magnesium deficiency. To restore magnesium, use a solution of Epsom salts, mix up one tablespoon of Epsom salts to a 600ml spray bottle and fill with lukewarm water, shake it until the Epsom salts dissolve and spray on the foliage and flowers.

About Eggplant: Eggplant, as its name suggests, is a large egg-shaped fruit with a glossy surface that varies in colour from dark purple to red or white and is sometimes striped.

Tips for growing: Sow seeds into a seedbox or punnet of good quality seedling mix or alternatively direct in final growing position in a large pot or in the garden.

Harvest fruit when the skin is smooth and rich purple in colour. Cut rather than pull fruits from the bush. 

Companion Plants - plant Eggplant with: chives, onion, parsley, marigold, nasturtium, carrot and roses.