The magic of eggplant: Growing eggplants at home
Eggplant is a popular vegetable appreciated for its delicate flavour and versatility in the kitchen. Growing eggplants at home can be a rewarding activity and allow you to enjoy fresh and tasty vegetables directly from your garden. Here is a practical guide to growing eggplants at home:
1. Choose the right location
Eggplants need a lot of sun to grow well. Choose a place in your garden or on your balcony that receives at least 6 to 8 hours of sun a day. Also make sure that the place is sheltered from the wind to prevent the plants from breaking.
2. Prepare soil
Prepare the soil by working it thoroughly and adding compost to enrich the soil with nutrients. Eggplants grow better in well-drained soil, so make sure the soil does not overretain water.
3. Plant seeds or plants
You can grow eggplants from seeds or by buying already cultivated plants. If you choose to plant seeds, do so approximately 8 to 10 weeks before the planned planting period. If you choose plants, make sure to space them about 60 cm apart to allow good growth.
4. Water and maintain plants
Aubergines need regular watering to grow well. Keep the soil moist but not wet. During heat, water the plants early in the morning or late in the day to avoid excessive water evaporation.
- Pailing around plants to retain moisture and limit weed growth.
- Add balanced fertilizer once a month to stimulate plant growth.
- Tutor the plants as they grow to support them and prevent them from lying down.
5. Harvest eggplants
Eggplants are ready to be harvested when their skin is shiny and they have reached an appropriate size depending on the variety you grow. Use a sharp knife to cut the eggplants of the plant by not damaging the rest of the plant.
By following these simple steps, you can enjoy delicious fresh aubergines grown at home. Don’t forget to share your successes with your loved ones and enjoy the fruit of your work!