Eggplant / Aubergine
The plants and large glossy purple fruits
are decorative, and the fruit appetizing sliced and fried or used in
casseroles, etc.
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Requirements to Grow Aubergine
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As for
tomatoes.
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Planting time for Growing Aubergine
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Egg-plants need a long, warm growing
season so in temperate regions are sown or planted during October or
November; in cool areas during October, and in semi-tropical regions
from September-February.
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Cultivation for Aubergine
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Because of their need for a long growing
period and because they do not transplant well, egg-plants are usually
sown 3 or 4 seeds per pot and the strongest seedling is planted out
when nights have lost their chill. Peat pots are an excellent starting
medium. Plants should be set out about 50 cm apart and, if more than 2
rows are being planted, allow 1 m between the rows. Stake plants in
windy areas or pinch the tips from the plant when 15-20 cm tall to
force lower branching and make the plants a little more
self-supporting.
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Harvest fruit when deep purple. Regular picking encourages longer
cropping.
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Special problems in Growing Aubergine
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Tomato dusts control any pests liable to
attack the plants.
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