AubergineAvan Plants

Planting:

Planting in open ground should be done around mid-May or in June, when the risk of frost has passed. Plant the Aubergine in full sun, in a sheltered spot. It thrives in well-drained and rich soils. As aubergine is a nutrient-hungry vegetable, it will be necessary to add well-rotted compost the previous autumn. In cooler regions, it is advisable to plant aubergine in a greenhouse.

Soak the root ball in water for a few moments before planting. Space the plants 50cm (20in) apart in all directions. Dig a hole, insert the root ball and cover with fine soil. Water generously. At the beginning of the growing season, protect the plants with a mini tunnel or a cloche to gain a few degrees.

Aubergine can also be grown in pots, provided they are placed in the sun. In this case, you can install the plug plants provided directly in the pot.

Maintenance:

Regularly hoe and weed. Remove the suckers that develop at the base of the plant.

Water regularly, being careful not to wet the foliage to prevent the occurrence of fungal diseases such as mildew. Drip irrigation is appropriate.

Pruning will be necessary to promote fruit development. In July, cut the main stem above the 2nd flower. Repeat this operation on the new shoots that develop. This way, you can expect to harvest an average of 7 to 8 fruits per plant.

Diseases and pests:

Aubergine is susceptible, like tomatoes, to mildew. It is a fungal disease caused by the Phytophthora infestans fungus. Mildew develops in hot and humid weather. Small spots appear, white on the underside of the leaves and green-grey on top. To limit the risk, space the plants adequately and avoid watering the foliage. In terms of crop rotation, wait 4 years before growing a plant from the Solanaceae family in the same location, and do not grow them in neighbouring rows. If necessary, spray Bordeaux mixture or preparations such as horsetail decoction or garlic extract.

Harvest can also be hindered by the Colorado potato beetle, an insect of the order Coleoptera. You will recognize it by its yellow head and its yellow and black striped body. The best solution, although a bit time-consuming, is to remove them as they appear. As a preventive measure, sow blue flax seeds between your rows of aubergines. Sow from April to June in shallow furrows. In addition to its repellent effect against Colorado potato beetles, flax will brighten up your vegetable garden with its pretty little blue flowers.

Finally, you can protect young plants from slugs and snails by placing ash or coffee grounds nearby, to be renewed in case of rain.