eggplant
Solanum melongena 'Patio Baby'
Cycle:
Herbaceous Perennial
Watering:
Average
Hardiness Zone:
9 - 12
Flowers:
Violet Flowers In Spring
Sun:
full sun
Fruits:
Fruits Ready In Summer
Edible:
Yes
Leaf:
Yes
Leaf Color:
green
Growth Rate:
Low
Maintenance:
Moderate
Drought Tolerant:
Yes
Salt Tolerant:
Yes
Care Level:
Medium
watering
Eggplant (Solanum Melongena 'Patio Baby') should be watered deeply but infrequently, allowing the top 1-2 inches of soil to dry out between waterings. A good rule of thumb is to water when the soil is dry to the touch. Over-watering can cause the roots to rot, so be careful not to water too often. Eggplants should receive about 1 inch of water per week and be sure to water enough that some of the moisture is reaching the roots. If your plant isn't getting enough water, the leaves may droop and the fruits may start to crack. Fertilizer can be added every 6-8 weeks to give the plant a boost.
sunlight
Eggplant (Solanum melongena 'Patio Baby') is best grown in a warm climate with full sunlight. For best results, the plant should get at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. For best eggplant production, provide plants with 8-10 hours of direct sun each day. When grown in a climate with cooler temperatures, eggplants should be provided with some light protection from late afternoon heat.
pruning
When youâre pruning eggplant, the best time to do it is in the spring, as soon as the frost has passed and the soil has carefully warmed up. Aim for a minimum soil temperature of 15°C before pruning. How much to prune depends on a few things. In general, you want to prune up to 25% of the plant to promote healthy and efficient growth, by removing old and dying branches. The new branches with blooms should be kept on the top 2/3 of the plant, and all branches from the base should get pruned out to help with airflow and light penetration of the eggplant plant. As the eggplant matures, deadheading should be done as sections of the plant start to flower so that the plant energy can be directed into producing fruits, rather than seeds.
Propagation
Season
Hardiness Map
FAQ
Are eggplant and aubergines the same plant?
Yes, Eggplant and Aubergines are the same plant. They are both members of the Solanum melongena family, native to India and now cultivated worldwide. The two different names are primarily a result of different regional English dialects and the French name used in other parts of the world. Eggplants can also be known as brinjals in some parts of the world. Regardless of the name, they are the same plant.
Do aubergines contain fiber?
Yes, aubergines (eggplants) contain a good amount of fibre. 100 grams of aubergine provides 2.6 grams of fibre, which is 10% of the recommended daily allowance (RDA). Fiber is an important part of any healthy diet as it helps with digestion, keeps you full longer, lowers cholesterol, and even helps to regulate blood sugar levels and may reduce the risk of some diseases.
Do aubergines need a lot of space to grow?
Yes, like many other vegetables, aubergines need plenty of space to grow. They should be planted at least 18-24 inches apart from each other to allow enough room for them to expand. Additionally, they need enough space for proper airflow to ensure that the plants remain healthy and free of disease. Growers may wish to grow more than one aubergine plant in one area, but itâs important to space them out properly for best results.
Can we eat aubergines leaves?
Yes, aubergine leaves are edible and can be eaten. The leaves are high in antioxidants, which can protect cells in the body from damage. They are also a good source of dietary fiber, which can help keep the digestive system healthy. They should be cooked before being eaten, as when eaten raw they can cause stomach irritation. When cooked, the leaves can be added to salads, soups, pasta dishes and stir-fries for extra flavor and texture.
Is crop rotation necessary for aubergines plants cultivated?
Yes, crop rotation is necessary for aubergines plants cultivated. This is because rotating crops in the same soil helps reduce soil-borne disease, reduce weed growth, conserve soil nutrients, and improve soil structure. In addition, rotating aubergines with other crops prevents the build-up of diseases and pests in the soil, as they will not be able to survive over the long term on just one crop. Finally, when aubergines are rotated with other crops it allows the soil to rest and recharge, preserving soil fertility and improving crop yields in the long run.
Can aubergine plant flowers be edible?
The short answer is yes. Depending on the variety of aubergine, the flower can be edible. It is typically a light purple or white color and should be picked when it is young and unopened. The flower petals can be cooked in a variety of dishes or eaten raw. The flavor is somewhat bitter and sweet, but the texture is similar to a squash flower. When selecting edible flowers, always make sure they are not sprayed with any chemicals or pesticides.
Can you grow aubergines indoors all around the year?
No, it is not possible to grow aubergines indoors all around the year. Aubergines, also known as eggplants, are warm-weather crops and require temperatures of at least 70°F (21°C) for successful growth. Unless you can create a consistently warm environment indoors that is also well-lit, aubergines will not thrive. In colder climates, a greenhouse may be the best place for successful eggplant growing.
