Aubergine Thai Yellow Egg

The 'Thai Yellow Egg' Aubergine is easy to grow. Sunlight and heat are crucial for the success of this crop. It will thrive in any type of soil, but it prefers rich and well-drained soil. If the soil is too compact, you can add some coarse sand for drainage. It takes 70 to 90 days from sowing to the first fruits.

Hotbed sowing: From mid-February to the end of April, sow indoors or in heated greenhouses in trays at temperatures above 20°C (68°F). Germination is rapid between 20 and 35°C (68 and 95°F). Bury the seeds under 3 to 7 mm (0in) of special seed compost, as they need darkness to germinate. Do not use compost at this stage, as it may burn the future roots. Thai Yellow Egg Aubergine plants grow fast, the seeds usually sprout within one to two weeks. When the plants have two true leaves, think about transplanting them into pots. Keep the plants sheltered while providing good ventilation to acclimatise them to outdoor conditions.

Transplanting in open ground: Once the risk of frost has passed, usually after mid-May, and when the plants are 10 to 15 cm (4 to 6in) tall, transplant them to open ground. Choose the sunniest and warmest spots in the garden. The base of a south-facing wall is an ideal position. Loosen the soil and dig a hole at least 3 to 4 times the volume of the plant's root system. Add a little well-decomposed compost at the bottom. Space them about 30 cm (12in) apart. Firm the soil, create a basin around the plant, and then water generously. Be careful not to wet the leaves to protect your plants from fungal diseases. Adding mulch at the base of your plants helps retain some moisture and reduces the need for weeding. Thai Yellow Egg Aubergine plants do not need much watering, as their root system can reach deep for available resources. Water generously only during prolonged drought.

Transplanting to pots or large planters: Choose a pot that is at least 30 cm (12in) in diameter. Note that aubergines are sensitive to stagnant moisture, so choose a pot with drainage holes at the bottom for better drainage. Aubergines require rich, lightweight, slightly acidic to neutral pH soil. To provide them with essential nutrients for growth, it is best to use high-quality potting soil enriched with well-rotted compost. Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist, but only water moderately each time to avoid waterlogging the soil and causing root rot.