Thompson & Morgan Aubergine Bonica F1 Hybrid - 13 Seeds
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This guide is for home gardeners looking to grow flavorful, glossy purple aubergines. The Thompson & Morgan Aubergine Bonica F1 Hybrid offers early and heavy cropping throughout summer, ideal for greenhouses or patio containers, though it requires specific temperature and humidity levels for optimal growth. Key features include its popular French-bred variety, oval-shaped fruits, and suitability for various growing environments.
All features
| Model Part Number | 75710 |
|---|---|
| Brand | Thompson & Morgan |
Extended Product Information
FAQs
What are the ideal temperature and humidity for growing Aubergine 'Bonica'?
Aubergines grow best at temperatures of 25-30°C (77-86°F) with high humidity levels.
Can I grow these aubergines in containers?
Yes, they are ideal for growing in patio containers, though they will need support from stakes or canes.
When should I expect to harvest the aubergines?
You can expect to harvest the fruits from August onwards, once they appear fully coloured and shiny.
How often should I feed my aubergine plants?
Once the first flowers have set, feed aubergines every 2 weeks with a high potash tomato feed.
How do I encourage larger fruits?
Restricting the crop to 5 or 6 fruits per plant will help produce the largest fruits.
What does 'F1 Hybrid' mean for this variety?
F1 Hybrid indicates that it is a first-generation cross between two distinct parent lines, typically resulting in strong vigor, uniform growth, and improved characteristics compared to open-pollinated varieties.
How many seeds are included in a packet?
Each packet contains 13 seeds.
Troubleshooting
Seeds not germinating
Ensure seeds are planted at the correct depth, kept consistently moist, and maintained within the optimal temperature range (21-27°C) with sufficient warmth.
Buds dropping before setting fruit
This is often due to temperature fluctuations, inconsistent watering, or lack of sufficient nutrients. Ensure consistent watering, stable temperatures (ideally 25-30°C), and begin feeding with a high-potash feed once flowers appear.
Yellowing leaves
Yellowing leaves can indicate a nutrient deficiency, overwatering, or underwatering. Check soil moisture levels and ensure regular feeding with a balanced fertilizer or a high-potash feed during the fruiting stage.
Poor fruit development or small fruits
Ensure the plant is receiving adequate sunlight, water, and nutrients. Consider restricting the crop to 5-6 fruits per plant to encourage larger fruit size and better development.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Provides consistently flavorful and attractive glossy purple aubergine fruits.
- Offers an early and extended harvest period, maximizing yield.
- Adaptable to both greenhouse and container gardening, offering flexibility.
- The F1 hybrid nature suggests strong vigor and uniform growth.
Cons
- Requires specific high temperatures (25-30°C) and humidity for best results.
- Needs staking or support as plants grow taller.
- Requires regular feeding and watering to prevent bud drop and ensure fruit development.
- Yield may be limited if the crop is not restricted to 5-6 fruits per plant for larger produce.
Setup, Compatibility & Care
Sowing & Initial Care:
Sow seeds indoors in pots or trays filled with seed compost. Maintain a temperature of 21-27°C (70-81°F) for germination. Once seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant them into individual pots. Gradually acclimatise them to outdoor conditions before planting out into their final position. For best results, plant in a sunny, sheltered spot or a greenhouse.
Growing Conditions:
Aubergines thrive in warm conditions, ideally between 25-30°C (77-86°F) with high humidity. Ensure good air circulation, especially in greenhouses, to prevent fungal diseases.
Support & Pruning:
As plants grow, provide support using stakes or canes. To encourage a bushier habit and better fruit production, pinch out the main growing tip once the plant reaches a desired height or has set its first flowers.
Watering & Feeding:
Water plants regularly and consistently, especially during dry periods, to prevent bud drop. Once the first flowers have set and begun to develop into fruits, feed the plants every two weeks with a high-potash liquid feed, such as a tomato feed.
Harvesting:
Harvest aubergines by cutting them close to the stem using a sharp knife or secateurs from August onwards. Fruits are ready when they appear fully coloured and shiny. Regular harvesting will encourage the plant to produce more flowers and continue cropping.