Eggplant (Long Purple)

• Originally native to India and Southeast Asia, eggplants have been cultivated for over 4000 years. The Long Purple variety is a heritage type prized for reliability.
• Plants grow 60-90cm tall with broad, fuzzy leaves and produce beautiful purple star-shaped flowers before fruiting. Each plant can yield 8-12 large fruits per season.
• Gardeners love this variety for its consistent performance, excellent flavour, and versatility in cooking from ratatouille to moussaka. The fruits store well when properly harvested.
• Heat-loving plants that thrive in Australia's warm climate zones, particularly Queensland, NSW, and Western Australia's coastal regions.

• Water deeply 2-3 times weekly during growing season, maintaining consistent soil moisture without waterlogging. Reduce watering in cooler months.
• Position in full sun location receiving 6-8 hours direct sunlight daily. Protect from strong winds and extreme afternoon heat in very hot climates.
• Plant in well-draining, fertile soil enriched with compost. Maintain pH between 6.0-7.0 for optimal nutrient uptake.
• Feed with balanced liquid fertiliser every 2 weeks during active growth, switching to potassium-rich fertiliser when flowering begins.
• Pinch growing tips when plants reach 30cm to encourage bushier growth. Remove suckers and prune lower leaves touching soil.
• Maintain warm, humid conditions and provide consistent watering during fruit development for best yields.

• Provide full sun location with at least 6-8 hours direct sunlight daily for optimal fruit production. Morning sun is essential in hot climates.
• Water deeply 2-3 times weekly, keeping soil consistently moist but never waterlogged. Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
• Plant after last frost when soil temperature reaches 18°C consistently. In cooler areas, start seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before transplanting.
• Feed regularly with balanced fertiliser every 2-3 weeks during growing season. Switch to low-nitrogen, high-potassium fertiliser when flowering begins.

• Aphids cluster on young leaves and shoots - spray with insecticidal soap or encourage beneficial insects like ladybirds. Remove heavily infested leaves and maintain good air circulation.
• Fruit fly can damage developing eggplants - use exclusion bags or traps during fruiting season. Harvest fruits promptly when ready.
• Verticillium wilt causes yellowing and wilting - ensure good drainage and avoid overwatering. Remove affected plants and don't replant in the same soil.
• Flea beetles create small holes in leaves - use row covers on young plants and apply neem oil spray. Maintain healthy soil to promote vigorous growth.