Aubergine Baluroi F1

Planting:

Grow on the plants by transplanting the plug plants into trays or pots of 8 to 13 cm (3 to 5in) in diameter, filled with compost. Place them in a warm and bright location. Water regularly.

Planting in the 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 the aubergine is a heavy feeder, it will be necessary to add well-rotted compost in the previous autumn. In cooler regions, it is advisable to plant the aubergine in a greenhouse.

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

The aubergine can also be grown in pots, provided it is placed in the sun. In this case, you can plant the plug plants directly into the pot.

Maintenance:

Water regularly, making sure not to wet the foliage to prevent the occurrence of fungal diseases such as mildew. Drip irrigation is well suited.

Diseases and pests:

The aubergine is susceptible, just like the tomato, to mildew. This 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 the top. To limit the risks, space the plants sufficiently and do not water the foliage. In terms of rotation, wait 4 years before growing a plant from the Solanaceae family in the same location and do not grow them in neighboring rows. If necessary, spray with Bordeaux mixture or preparations such as horsetail decoction or garlic tea.

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