Out of season right now. The next sowing window opens in January.
Growing Calendar
This month: Oct
Plan ahead for this crop
- •Check growing conditions
- •Prepare for next stage
Watch Out For
Red spider mite thrives in the hot, dry air aubergines love. Mist plants regularly and increase humidity; introduce Phytoseiulus predators if an infestation takes hold
Aphids cluster on growing tips and flower buds. Check weekly and spray with a dilute soap solution or introduce Aphidius biological controls
Flowers drop without setting fruit in cool conditions. Keep temperatures reliably above 15°C at night and mist or tap flowers gently to aid pollination
Common Questions
About growing Aubergine in the UK
Can I grow aubergines outdoors in the UK?
Only in a warm, sheltered, south-facing spot in a good summer, and even then results are unreliable. A greenhouse, polytunnel or large sunny conservatory gives far more consistent results in the UK climate.
Why are my aubergine flowers falling off without fruiting?
Flower drop is usually caused by cool temperatures, low humidity, or poor pollination. Keep night temperatures above 15°C, mist plants to raise humidity, and gently tap or brush open flowers to help pollen transfer.
How many aubergines will one plant produce?
Limiting each plant to 5–6 fruits gives noticeably better size and flavour than leaving it to set more. Pinch out extra flowers once this number has set.
When should I harvest aubergines?
Harvest when the skin is glossy and taut, usually 16–20 weeks after sowing. A dull, matte skin means the fruit is overripe and the seeds inside will have turned tough and bitter.
Written from real growing experience, organic methods only. Our story · Our approach
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