🍆🌱 When to Plant Aubergines in the UK

🍆 Introduction: Aubergines Need Heat, Light, and Time

Aubergines are one of the most heat-loving vegetables grown in the UK. They require a long growing season, consistently warm temperatures, and plenty of light to flower and produce fruit. Because UK summers are relatively short, correct timing is essential. Understanding when to plant aubergines in the UK ensures plants have enough time to develop, flower, and set fruit successfully.

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📅 Best Time to Plant Aubergines in the UK

Aubergines are almost always grown under cover in the UK.

Key planting stages:
✔ Sow seeds: January to February
✔ Grow on under cover: February to May
✔ Move to greenhouse or outdoors: May to June
✔ Harvest: July to October

Early sowing is critical for good yields.

🌱 When to Sow Aubergine Seeds

✔ sow from January to February
✔ start seeds indoors or in a heated propagator
✔ maintain high, steady warmth for germination

Aubergine seeds germinate best at 22–30°C.

🌱 When to Move Aubergine Plants On

Into a Greenhouse or Polytunnel

✔ move plants from April to May
✔ ensure night temperatures remain mild

Outdoors (Pots or Beds)

✔ move plants from late May to June
✔ only after all risk of frost has passed
✔ choose a very warm, sheltered position

Outdoor growing is only reliable in the warmest UK locations.

🌡️ Temperature and Growing Conditions

Aubergines grow best when:

✔ daytime temperatures are 20–30°C
✔ night temperatures stay above 15°C
✔ plants receive full sun

Cool conditions dramatically reduce flowering and fruit set.

🌍 Regional Differences Across the UK

Cold Areas (Scotland, northern England, higher ground)

✔ sow as early as possible
✔ grow entirely under glass
✔ provide additional warmth if needed

Mild Areas (southern England, coastal regions)

✔ greenhouse growing still preferred
✔ limited outdoor growing possible in hot summers

In most regions, protected growing gives the best results.

🪴 Growing Aubergines in Containers

✔ ideal for pots and grow bags
✔ use containers at least 30 cm deep
✔ move plants easily to maximise warmth

Container growing allows better temperature control.

❄️ How Aubergines Handle Cold and Heat

✔ extremely sensitive to cold
✔ growth stops below 15°C
✔ heat and sunshine improve fruiting

Aubergines need consistently warm conditions from start to finish.

🚫 Common Aubergine Growing Mistakes

❌ sowing too late
❌ insufficient heat during early growth
❌ moving plants outdoors too early
❌ poor light levels

Warmth, patience, and protection are essential for success.

🌟 FAQs

What month do you plant aubergines in the UK?

Aubergines are usually sown in January or February.

Can aubergines be grown outdoors in the UK?

Only in very warm, sheltered locations during hot summers.

How long do aubergines take to grow?

Typically 6–8 months from sowing to harvest.

Do aubergines need full sun?

Yes. Full sun is essential for good yields.

Why are my aubergines flowering but not fruiting?

This is often due to cool temperatures or poor pollination.