Aubergine Bonica

Early to ripen and continuing to crop heavily throughout the season, Bonica produces a good yield of long, oval, shiny purple fruits. Ideal for patio containers, plants are compact and bushy; the flavoursome fruits average 12cm (5in) in length.

Sow aubergine seeds from February to May for indoor cultivation or March to April for growing outdoors. Soaking them in warm water for 24 hours before sowing will assist germination.Sow seeds on the surface of a free draining, moist seed compost and cover with 6mm (¼") layer of vermiculite or compost. Place in a propagator or seal the container inside a polythene bag at constant temperature of 18-21C (65-70F) until after germination which takes 10-14 days. When the seedlings are large enough to handle, carefully transplant them into 7.5cm (3") pots and grow on at a slightly reduced temperature. When all risk of frost is passed and the soil is warm, harden off and plant aubergines in their final positions. For indoor cultivation, pot on into larger containers or plant 2 aubergines per grow bag. Outdoors, plant aubergines in rich fertile soil at a distance of 90cm (3’) apart, in rows spaced 90-120cm (3-4’) apart. Grow aubergines in a sheltered position in full sun. Planting through black plastic mulch will help to warm the soil, control weeds and save moisture.

HARVESTING;- June; July; August; September; October