Aubergines have a reputation for being difficult to care for. However, modern breeding has made it easier to grow eggplants in the garden or greenhouse.
How to care for eggplants in the garden or greenhouse?
Aubergines require regular watering, fertilizer every two weeks, occasional pruning and support from rods or spirals. Watch out for pests such as whiteflies, spider mites and green cucumber aphids, as well as the fungal disease Verticillium wilt.
How often are eggplants watered?
When planting eggplants in the garden or greenhouse, you must not forget to water them. The plants need a lot of water to develop large fruits. Watering is always done from below, never from above.
Do eggplants need to be fertilized?
Even if the eggplants were planted in nutritious soil, they need additional fertilizer. A good vegetable fertilizer (€19.00 on Amazon) is given every two weeks.
Are eggplants cut?
If you want to harvest large eggplant fruits, you should cut the plants. After the sixth to eighth leaf, cut off the tip so that the plant branches. More than three shoots should not remain standing.
Do eggplants need to be supported?
Yes, especially if you grow eggplant varieties with very large fruits. Support each shoot with a stick or planting spiral.
Which pests are dangerous for eggplants?
Three pests cause problems for plants:
- Whitefly
- Spider mite
- Green cucumber aphid
He althy plants resist pests better than sickly ones. Create a good, species-appropriate climate so that the plants develop enough resistance. Check the eggplants daily for pest infestation and take immediate countermeasures.
What diseases damage eggplants?
Verticillium wilt is a fungal disease. The leaves become increasingly lighter at the edges and eventually turn completely brownish. Remove all affected parts of the plant and also dispose of fallen leaves in the trash can.
For prevention, sow eggplant varieties that are fungus-resistant and ensure there is enough water and he althy soil.
Are eggplants overwintered?
In the open field, the plants die when frost sets in. When kept in a heated greenhouse, the cold temperatures have no effect. You just need to ensure there is enough light.
Tips & Tricks
Ladybirds and lacewings are of great help if aubergines are infested with aphids. These insects and their larvae eat the lice. Provide an insect-friendly environment. The larvae can be purchased from specialist retailers.