Aubergine

Solanum melongena

vegetable

verifiedReviewed by the GreenScout Team

Aubergine (eggplant) needs warmth and sunshine to thrive. In cooler climates it does best in a greenhouse or polytunnel, producing glossy purple fruits all summer.

Common Problems

Select the problem your Aubergine is experiencing to get a treatment guide.

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Yellow Leaveschevron_right

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Wiltingchevron_right

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Slow Growthchevron_right

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Blossom End Rotchevron_right

Care Guide

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Light

Full sun — minimum 6 hours.

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Water

Regularly, especially when fruiting. Keep evenly moist.

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Soil

Rich, well-draining soil.

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Fertiliser

High-potash feed weekly when flowering.

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Temperature

20–30°C (68–86°F). Needs warmth.

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Humidity

Moderate to high.

Toxicity

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Non-toxic when cooked.

Common Diseases

coronavirusVerticillium Wiltchevron_right

Common Pests

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Seasonal Care

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Resume regular watering and feeding as growth picks up.

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Peak growing season. Water and feed regularly.

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Reduce watering as growth slows. Stop heavy feeding.

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Minimal watering and feeding. Protect from frost if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why won't my Aubergine set fruit in a cool climate?

Aubergine needs warmth and sunshine to thrive, and in cooler climates it does best in a greenhouse or polytunnel — outdoors in marginal climates, insufficient heat is the most common reason fruit fails to set.

Is Aubergine safe to eat raw?

It's non-toxic when cooked, but raw aubergine is best avoided since cooking breaks down the mild solanine-family compounds naturally present in the nightshade family.