Aubergine of Barbentane - Organic seeds

Aubergine de Barbentane – Organic Seeds

This early variety of aubergine (eggplant) produces long, smooth fruits with a deep dark purple color. Its firm, yet tender white flesh makes it perfect for various culinary preparations. The Aubergine de Barbentane is particularly well-suited for outdoor cultivation, making it an excellent choice for gardeners looking to grow this flavorful vegetable.

Growing Tips for Aubergine Long Violette de Barbentane

Sowing:

Aubergines are a heat-loving vegetable, requiring warmth from sowing to harvest.

• Sow under warm conditions (with a minimum temperature of 23-24°C) in February-March.
• Maintain a warm, humid, and well-lit environment. Water gently but regularly to keep the soil moist. Some varieties of aubergines may be more demanding regarding the temperature for germination—if the seeds fail to sprout, consider raising the temperature to over 25°C.
• When the seedlings develop 3-4 true leaves, transplant into individual pots while keeping the temperature warm.
• Finally, once the last frosts have passed, transplant the seedlings into the ground (ideally under a greenhouse) with a spacing of 50 cm between each plant.

In areas north of the Loire, growing aubergines under a greenhouse is recommended for optimal results.

Care:

• Soil: The soil must be well-drained and rich in organic matter. Add compost or well-decomposed manure to improve soil fertility.
• Watering: Keep the soil moist with regular, consistent watering. Avoid long periods of drought as this can negatively impact the growth and fruit quality.
• Pruning: To encourage abundant fruit production, pinch off lateral shoots and remove the lower leaves from the plants. This will allow more light to reach the fruits, enhancing their growth.

Harvesting:

• Aubergines are ready for harvest when they reach their full size, and their skin is firm and glossy. Use a sharp knife to cut the fruits from the plant, leaving part of the stem attached.
• Harvest regularly as soon as the fruits ripen to encourage the plant to keep producing new fruits throughout the season. Don’t leave the aubergines too long on the plant, as they can become overripe and bitter.

Diseases:

Aubergines can be prone to diseases such as powdery mildew, root rot, and verticillium wilt.

To prevent powdery mildew, you can take several measures:

• Practice crop rotation to keep the soil healthy, rich, and balanced.
• Avoid wetting the leaves when watering to prevent fungal growth.
• Space your plants well to ensure proper air circulation.
• Regularly spray with nettle or horsetail decoction (to strengthen the plant against fungal diseases) or apply powdered seaweed.

Health Benefits:

Aubergines are low in calories and packed with essential nutrients such as fiber, Vitamin K, Vitamin C, Vitamin B6, folate, and potassium. They also contain antioxidants like anthocyanins, which give the fruit its distinctive purple color.

This variety of aubergine is not only delicious but also a healthy addition to any garden.