Aubergine, 'Kermit', F1 Hybrid

Germination

Easily grown in the greenhouse, outdoors can be more difficult. Sow indoors. Sow 5mm deep into moist well-drained seed compost, allowing 2cm between seeds. Ideal germination temp. 25-32°C. Germination takes 10-21 days approx. Transplant when seedlings are large enough to handle to 8cm pots and grow on with an ideal temp. 16°C. Night temp. should not be below 12°C. If planting out harden off and move to a sunny, sheltered spot with well-drained soil. For the greenhouse grow in 20cm pots filled with compost or plant in growbags, 3 plants per bag. Stake plants for extra support. Fruit will not set if night temp. drops below 16°C.

Growing

Prefers a warm and humid environment. Keep soil mist at all times, but not wet. Stake for added support. Mist plants regularly. A feed will be appreciated once fruit has set but too much nitrogen with cause leafy growth at the expense of fruits. Fruit will not set if night time temperatures drop below 16°C.

Cultivation

To harvest cut the fruit from the plant with scissors. Fruit is green and white when ripe and about the size of a golf ball. Harvest while the fruit is still shiny, dull fruit tend to be over-ripe and bitter. Aubergines will keep in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.