How to Grow Aubergines in the UK: Complete Guide from Seed to Harvest

Growing aubergines in the UK can be incredibly rewarding, especially when you manage to harvest your own beautiful, glossy fruits straight from the greenhouse or polytunnel.

Aubergines are one of those vegetables that many gardeners assume are difficult to grow in Britain. After all, they’re associated with warm Mediterranean climates, long summers and plenty of sunshine.

However, with the right varieties, an early start and suitable growing conditions, aubergines can grow successfully in British gardens.

They’re particularly well suited to greenhouses and polytunnels, although some varieties can also produce crops outdoors in warm, sheltered locations.

Aubergines are also known as eggplants, particularly in America and some other parts of the world. Both names refer to the same crop.

Here at Gardening with Ben, I enjoy growing a wide variety of vegetables and experimenting with different ways of making the most of available growing space. Aubergines are an interesting crop to add to the growing season because they offer something different from the usual tomatoes, cucumbers and peppers.

In this complete guide, we’ll explore how to grow aubergines in the UK, including when to sow seeds, choosing varieties, growing in greenhouses and containers, watering, feeding, pruning, pollination, harvesting and dealing with common problems.

What Are Aubergines?

Aubergines are warm-season fruiting plants belonging to the nightshade family, Solanaceae.

Their botanical name is Solanum melongena.

They’re closely related to tomatoes, potatoes and peppers.

Although commonly treated as vegetables in cooking, aubergines are botanically fruits.

Most varieties produce attractive purple flowers followed by smooth, glossy fruits.

However, not all aubergines are purple.

Different varieties can produce white, green, striped, pinkish-purple or almost black fruits.

Aubergine Growing Facts

Feature	Details
Botanical name	Solanum melongena
Common names	Aubergine, eggplant
Plant family	Solanaceae
Growing season	Spring to autumn
Seed sowing	January–March with warmth and sufficient light
Germination temperature	Approximately 21–27°C
Planting outdoors	Late May–June, after frost
Preferred position	Full sun
Growing environment	Greenhouse, polytunnel or sheltered outdoors
Harvesting	Usually July–October, depending on conditions
Soil	Fertile, moisture-retentive and well-drained
Container growing	Suitable
Frost tolerance	Tender; not frost hardy

Can You Grow Aubergines Successfully in the UK?

Yes, aubergines can be grown successfully in the UK.

However, they’re generally more demanding than crops such as potatoes, onions or broad beans.

Aubergines need a relatively long, warm growing season.

They also require good light levels and protection from cold weather.

Best Places to Grow Aubergines

Aubergines can be grown in:

• Greenhouses
• Polytunnels
• Large containers
• Raised beds
• Sunny vegetable beds
• Sheltered patios

For most UK gardeners, a greenhouse or polytunnel offers the most reliable conditions.

Outdoor growing is possible, particularly in southern England and sheltered urban gardens, but harvests are more dependent on summer temperatures.

Are Aubergines and Eggplants the Same Thing?

Yes.

Aubergine and eggplant are two names for the same plant.

In the UK, the word aubergine is normally used.

In the United States, eggplant is more common.

The term eggplant is believed to have developed because some older varieties produced small, pale fruits resembling eggs.

Modern varieties are available in many different shapes and colours.

Whether your seed packet says aubergine or eggplant, the basic growing requirements are the same.

Best Aubergine Varieties to Grow in the UK

Choosing the right variety is particularly important in Britain.

Some aubergines are better suited to protected growing or shorter seasons.

Aubergine ‘Black Beauty’

Black Beauty is a traditional aubergine variety.

It produces large, dark purple fruits.

It is popular with gardeners who want the familiar supermarket-style aubergine.

However, it benefits from a warm, protected growing environment.

Aubergine ‘Bonica’ F1

Bonica F1 is a productive hybrid variety that produces large purple fruits.

It is commonly recommended for greenhouse growing.

Aubergine ‘Moneymaker’ F1

Moneymaker F1 is a variety often selected for British growing conditions.

It produces attractive dark fruits and is suitable for protected cultivation.

Aubergine ‘Ophelia’ F1

Ophelia F1 is a compact variety producing smaller fruits.

It can be useful for containers and limited growing spaces.

Aubergine ‘Pinstripe’ F1

Pinstripe F1 is a compact aubergine with attractive striped fruits.

It can make an interesting addition to a patio growing collection.

Aubergine ‘Long Purple’

Long Purple produces elongated fruits rather than the rounded or oval shape of many traditional varieties.

It benefits from plenty of warmth.

Which Variety Should Beginners Choose?

For beginners, I would concentrate on a variety advertised as suitable for UK greenhouse growing or compact container production.

Always check the seed supplier’s information because plant height, fruit size and maturity time vary.

When to Sow Aubergine Seeds in the UK

Aubergines are usually started indoors early in the year.

January, February and March are the main sowing months for gardeners with suitable growing facilities.

However, sowing too early can create problems if you cannot provide enough warmth and light.

Sowing in January

January sowing is best suited to gardeners with heated propagators and supplementary growing lights.

Natural daylight is limited at this time of year.

Sowing in February

February is a popular month for starting aubergines.

A heated propagator can help achieve reliable germination.

Seedlings still need plenty of light.

Sowing in March

March is a good choice for many gardeners.

Daylight is increasing, making it easier to grow strong seedlings.

Can You Sow Aubergines in April?

Yes, but April sowing leaves a shorter growing season.

Choose a relatively early-maturing variety and provide suitable warmth.

In cooler parts of the UK, later sowing may reduce the chance of a substantial harvest.

Aubergine Growing Calendar for the UK

Month	Gardening activity
January	Begin early sowing with heat and lighting
February	Sow aubergine seeds indoors
March	Continue sowing and pot on seedlings
April	Grow plants on in warm, bright conditions
May	Prepare greenhouse planting areas
June	Plant outdoors after frost risk has passed
July	Feed, water and begin harvesting early fruits
August	Main growing and harvesting period
September	Continue harvesting and protect from cold
October	Harvest remaining fruits before frost
November	Remove spent plants and clean equipment
December	Choose varieties for next year

These timings are approximate.

How to Sow Aubergine Seeds Step by Step

Aubergine seeds require more warmth than many common vegetables.

Step 1: Prepare Seed Trays or Pots

Use clean seed trays, modules or small pots with drainage holes.

Step 2: Fill with Compost

Use a suitable peat-free seed compost.

Gently firm the surface.

Step 3: Sow the Seeds

Sow seeds approximately 0.5–1cm deep, following the seed packet instructions.

Step 4: Cover Lightly

Cover with a thin layer of compost.

Step 5: Water Carefully

Moisten the compost without saturating it.

Step 6: Provide Warmth

Maintain a temperature of approximately 21–27°C for germination.

A heated propagator can be extremely useful.

Step 7: Wait for Germination

Seeds often germinate within approximately 7–14 days in favourable conditions.

Some may take longer.

Step 8: Provide Plenty of Light

Once seedlings emerge, provide bright light and avoid leaving them in excessively hot, poorly lit conditions.

Why Are My Aubergine Seeds Not Germinating?

Poor germination is one of the most common problems when growing aubergines.

Compost Is Too Cold

Aubergines need relatively high temperatures for reliable germination.

Compost Is Too Wet

Waterlogged compost can encourage seed rot.

Compost Is Too Dry

Seeds need moisture to germinate.

Seeds Are Too Old

Older seeds may have reduced viability.

Seeds Are Buried Too Deeply

Follow the packet’s recommended sowing depth.

Temperature Fluctuations

Consistent warmth generally produces better results.

How to Care for Aubergine Seedlings

Once seedlings have germinated, they need careful attention.

Provide Bright Light

Aubergines can become weak and leggy if light levels are insufficient.

Maintain Warmth

Avoid exposing young plants to cold conditions.

Water Carefully

Keep compost appropriately moist without leaving it waterlogged.

Improve Airflow

Good airflow can help reduce excessive humidity.

Pot On When Necessary

Move seedlings into larger pots as their roots develop.

When to Pot On Aubergine Seedlings

Aubergine seedlings can be potted on once they have developed their first true leaves and are large enough to handle.

How to Pot On Aubergines

1. Prepare a slightly larger pot.
2. Fill it with suitable compost.
3. Carefully lift the seedling.
4. Avoid damaging the stem and roots.
5. Position it at approximately its previous growing depth.
6. Gently firm the compost.
7. Water carefully.

Unlike tomatoes, aubergines are generally not planted deeply to encourage additional stem rooting.

Avoid unnecessarily burying the stems.

When to Plant Aubergines in a Greenhouse

Aubergines can be planted into a greenhouse once conditions are consistently warm enough.

In many UK gardens, this may be during May.

However, unheated greenhouses can become cold at night.

Avoid moving plants too early.

Ideal Growing Conditions

Aubergines generally grow well in warm conditions, with daytime temperatures around 20–30°C.

They should be protected from frost and prolonged cold.

Greenhouse Ventilation

Ventilation is important during hot weather.

Excessive temperatures can cause flower drop and poor fruit set.

When to Plant Aubergines Outside in the UK

Outdoor aubergines should only be planted after the risk of frost has passed.

Late May or June is usually appropriate.

In northern England and other cooler areas, June is often safer.

Hardening Off

Before planting outdoors, gradually acclimatise the plants.

Start by placing them outside in a sheltered position during suitable daytime weather.

Increase exposure over approximately 7–14 days.

Bring plants indoors if temperatures become too cold.

Best Outdoor Position

Choose somewhere:

• Sunny
• Warm
• Sheltered
• Well drained
• Protected from strong winds

Best Soil for Growing Aubergines

Aubergines prefer fertile, moisture-retentive but well-drained soil.

They need adequate nutrients to support leafy growth, flowering and fruit production.

Improving Garden Soil

Incorporate suitable well-rotted compost before planting if necessary.

Heavy Clay Soil

Improve drainage and soil structure over time with organic matter.

Raised beds may be helpful where drainage is poor.

Sandy Soil

Sandy soil may require more frequent watering.

Adding organic matter can help retain moisture.

Soil pH

A slightly acidic to neutral soil, approximately pH 6.0–7.0, is generally suitable.

How to Plant Aubergines in the Ground

Step 1: Prepare the Planting Area

Remove weeds and improve the soil if necessary.

Step 2: Dig a Planting Hole

Make the hole large enough to accommodate the root ball.

Step 3: Remove the Plant from Its Pot

Handle the root system carefully.

Step 4: Position the Plant

Plant at approximately the same depth as it was growing in the pot.

Step 5: Firm the Soil

Gently firm around the roots.

Step 6: Water Thoroughly

Water to settle the soil.

Step 7: Provide Support

Install a suitable cane or other support if required.

Step 8: Maintain Warmth

Protect young plants from cold weather.

How Far Apart Should Aubergine Plants Be?

Spacing depends on the variety.

Many aubergines can be planted approximately 45–60cm apart.

Larger varieties may require more space.

Compact varieties can sometimes be planted more closely.

Always check the supplier’s recommended spacing.

Good airflow is important, particularly in greenhouses.

Growing Aubergines in Pots

Aubergines are excellent candidates for container growing.

Containers allow you to position plants in warm, sheltered locations.

They can also be moved under protection when necessary.

Choosing a Container

A container holding approximately 15–25 litres or more is useful for many varieties.

Larger plants may benefit from additional root space.

Choosing Compost

Use good-quality peat-free multipurpose compost suitable for fruiting vegetables.

Drainage

Ensure the container has adequate drainage holes.

Position

Place the pot in a warm, sunny location.

Watering

Check moisture regularly.

Containers can dry out quickly during hot weather.

Feeding

Container aubergines usually require regular feeding once flowering and fruiting begin.

Growing Aubergines in a Polytunnel

A polytunnel can provide excellent growing conditions for aubergines.

It offers protection from cold winds and helps maintain warmer temperatures.

Advantages

• Warmer growing environment
• Protection from heavy rain
• Extended growing season
• Suitable for container growing
• Better control over watering

Potential Problems

• Excessive heat
• Poor ventilation
• Rapid compost drying
• Whitefly and aphid infestations
• High humidity

Polytunnel Growing Tips

Open doors and vents during warm weather.

Maintain consistent watering.

Provide support for heavy fruiting plants.

Inspect regularly for pests.

How Often Should You Water Aubergines?

Aubergines need consistent moisture, especially during flowering and fruit development.

Watering Young Plants

Keep compost lightly moist while seedlings establish.

Watering Mature Plants

Water thoroughly when the root zone begins drying.

During Flowering

Avoid allowing plants to suffer severe drought stress.

During Fruiting

Consistent watering helps support healthy fruit development.

Watering Containers

Large container-grown plants may need frequent watering during hot weather.

Avoid Waterlogging

Saturated compost can damage roots.

Best Watering Method

Apply water around the base of the plant.

Avoid repeatedly soaking foliage where practical.

Best Fertiliser for Aubergines

Aubergines need nutrients to support strong growth and fruit production.

Feeding Young Plants

Plants growing in fresh compost may not require additional feeding immediately.

Feeding During Flowering

Once flowering begins and fruits start setting, a suitable high-potassium fertiliser can help support production.

Can You Use Tomato Feed?

Yes.

Tomato fertiliser is commonly used for aubergines.

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Avoid Excessive Nitrogen

Too much nitrogen can encourage leafy growth rather than fruit development.

Feeding Frequency

This depends on the fertiliser, growing medium and plant condition.

Follow the product instructions.

Do Aubergines Need Pruning?

Aubergines may benefit from limited pruning, particularly vigorous plants growing under protection.

However, they don’t need exactly the same pruning routine as cordon tomatoes.

Removing Damaged Leaves

Remove dead or diseased leaves where appropriate.

Removing Low Shoots

Some gardeners remove weak, low-growing shoots to improve airflow.

Pinching Out Growing Tips

Pinching out the main growing tip can encourage branching in some varieties.

However, this may delay fruiting and isn’t always beneficial in the UK’s shorter growing season.

Should You Prune Compact Aubergines?

Compact varieties often require very little pruning.

Follow the seed supplier’s recommendations.

Do Aubergines Need Supporting?

Many aubergine plants benefit from support.

Large fruits can become heavy.

Bamboo Canes

Useful for supporting the main stem.

Plant Ties

Use soft ties and avoid damaging the stems.

Tomato Cages

Can support branching varieties.

Checking Supports

Inspect plants regularly as fruits develop.

Do Aubergines Need Pollinating?

Aubergine flowers are generally self-fertile.

However, pollen must still move within the flower for successful fertilisation.

Outdoor Pollination

Wind and insects can help.

Greenhouse Pollination

Gently tapping flowering stems may improve pollen transfer.

Why Aren’t My Aubergines Setting Fruit?

Possible causes include:

• Low temperatures
• Excessive heat
• Poor pollen transfer
• Water stress
• Insufficient light
• Poor plant health

Temperature management is particularly important.

Why Are My Aubergine Flowers Falling Off?

Flower drop is a common problem.

Cold Temperatures

Aubergines may struggle to set fruit in cold conditions.

Excessive Heat

Very high temperatures can interfere with pollination and fruit development.

Irregular Watering

Water stress can contribute to flower drop.

Poor Light

Insufficient light may affect plant development.

Nutrient Imbalance

Excessive nitrogen can encourage foliage at the expense of fruiting.

Common Problems When Growing Aubergines

Aphids

Aphids may gather on tender shoots and leaves.

They feed on plant sap and can weaken growth.

Encourage beneficial insects and inspect plants regularly.

Whitefly

Whitefly can become troublesome in greenhouses and polytunnels.

Monitor plants and use suitable biological controls where appropriate.

Red Spider Mite

Red spider mites can thrive in hot, dry greenhouse conditions.

Symptoms may include fine webbing and pale speckling on leaves.

Slugs and Snails

Young aubergine plants can be damaged by slugs and snails.

Protect seedlings and keep growing areas tidy.

Blossom End Rot

Aubergines can develop blossom end rot.

This is associated with inadequate calcium reaching developing fruits, often because of irregular water availability.

Maintain consistent moisture.

Yellow Leaves

Yellow leaves may result from nutrient problems, watering issues, pests or natural ageing.

Inspect plants before applying fertiliser or treatments.

Poor Fruit Development

Small or misshapen fruits may be associated with poor pollination, temperature stress or unsuitable growing conditions.

Why Are My Aubergines Not Growing?

Slow growth is particularly common in cool British weather.

Insufficient Warmth

Aubergines grow slowly when temperatures are too low.

Poor Light

They need plenty of sunshine.

Small Containers

Restricted roots can limit growth.

Watering Problems

Both drought and waterlogging can cause problems.

Nutrient Deficiencies

Plants need suitable nutrition.

Transplant Stress

Plants may temporarily slow down after being moved.

When to Harvest Aubergines in the UK

Aubergines are usually harvested between July and October, depending on sowing dates and growing conditions.

Signs Aubergines Are Ready

Look for:

• Fruit reaching a suitable size
• Glossy skin
• Firm texture
• Expected mature colour
• Healthy appearance

Should You Wait Until Aubergines Are Huge?

Not necessarily.

Many aubergines are best harvested before they become overmature.

Overmature fruits can develop tougher skins, more noticeable seeds and poorer eating quality.

How to Harvest Aubergines Correctly

Aubergines should be harvested carefully because the stems can be tough.

Step 1: Choose a Suitable Fruit

Look for a glossy fruit of the expected size.

Step 2: Use Clean Secateurs

Avoid pulling the fruit from the plant.

Step 3: Cut the Stalk

Leave a short section of stalk attached.

Step 4: Handle Carefully

Avoid bruising the fruit.

Step 5: Harvest Regularly

Regular harvesting can encourage continued production when growing conditions remain favourable.

How Many Aubergines Will One Plant Produce?

The number of fruits varies considerably.

Compact varieties may produce several small aubergines.

Larger varieties may produce fewer but heavier fruits.

Factors affecting yield include:

• Variety
• Temperature
• Sunlight
• Container size
• Water availability
• Nutrient levels
• Pollination
• Pest and disease pressure

For the best results, concentrate on healthy plants and consistent growing conditions.

Can You Save Aubergine Seeds?

Yes.

Seeds can be saved from suitable open-pollinated varieties.

However, aubergines intended for eating are usually harvested before full seed maturity.

To save viable seed, fruits generally need to remain on the plant longer until fully mature.

Important Considerations

F1 hybrid varieties may not produce offspring identical to their parent plants.

Cross-pollination can also affect seed purity.

For reliable results, purchase fresh seed or save from suitable isolated open-pollinated varieties.

Can You Grow Aubergines Every Year in the Same Soil?

Repeatedly growing aubergines in the same soil can increase the risk of certain soil-borne problems.

Aubergines belong to the same family as tomatoes, potatoes and peppers.

Where practical, rotate these crops.

In greenhouses and polytunnels, rotation may be difficult.

Maintaining healthy soil and avoiding the introduction of diseased plants are particularly important.

How to Store Fresh Aubergines

Fresh aubergines are best used relatively soon after harvesting.

They are sensitive to chilling injury and excessive cold.

Short-Term Storage

Keep fruits somewhere cool but not excessively cold.

Avoid prolonged storage at very low temperatures.

Can You Refrigerate Aubergines?

Short-term refrigeration may be practical in warm homes, but prolonged cold storage can damage quality.

Use refrigerated aubergines promptly.

Can You Freeze Aubergines?

Yes.

Aubergines can be frozen after suitable preparation, such as blanching or cooking.

Freezing changes their texture, so they’re generally best used in cooked dishes.

Best Ways to Cook Homegrown Aubergines

Aubergines are incredibly versatile in the kitchen.

Roasted Aubergines

Roasting brings out their rich flavour and soft texture.

Grilled Aubergines

Slices can be grilled and served with herbs or other vegetables.

Aubergine Curry

Aubergines absorb flavours well and are popular in curries.

Ratatouille

Aubergines are a traditional ingredient in ratatouille.

Stuffed Aubergines

Larger fruits can be halved, filled and baked.

Aubergine Pasta

Roasted or fried aubergine can be added to pasta sauces.

Frequently Asked Questions About Growing Aubergines

Are Aubergines and Eggplants the Same?

Yes. They are two names for the same crop.

Can You Grow Aubergines in the UK?

Yes. They grow particularly well in greenhouses and polytunnels.

What Month Should You Sow Aubergines?

January to March is a common sowing period when suitable heat and light are available.

Do Aubergine Seeds Need Heat to Germinate?

Yes. A temperature of approximately 21–27°C is useful.

How Long Do Aubergine Seeds Take to Germinate?

Often approximately 7–14 days under favourable conditions.

Can You Grow Aubergines Outside in the UK?

Yes, particularly in warm, sheltered locations after frost risk has passed.

Do Aubergines Need a Greenhouse?

Not necessarily, but protected growing is generally more reliable in the UK.

Can You Grow Aubergines in Pots?

Yes. Large containers are suitable for many varieties.

How Much Sun Do Aubergines Need?

They perform best in full sun.

How Often Should You Water Aubergines?

Water according to soil moisture and weather conditions, avoiding prolonged drought and waterlogging.

Can You Feed Aubergines with Tomato Feed?

Yes. A suitable tomato fertiliser can support fruiting.

Should You Pinch Out Aubergine Plants?

Some vigorous varieties may benefit, but pinching out isn’t essential for every plant.

Do Aubergines Need Pollinating?

Yes. They are generally self-fertile, but pollen still needs to move within the flowers.

Why Are My Aubergine Flowers Falling Off?

Temperature stress, watering problems and poor pollination conditions are possible causes.

Why Are My Aubergines Not Producing Fruit?

Insufficient warmth, poor light, flower drop or inadequate pollination may be responsible.

When Do You Harvest Aubergines in the UK?

Usually from July to October, depending on growing conditions.

How Do You Know When Aubergines Are Ripe?

Look for glossy skin, firm flesh and the expected size and colour.

Can You Grow Aubergines in a Polytunnel?

Yes. A polytunnel can provide excellent growing conditions when properly ventilated.

Are Aubergines Perennial?

Aubergines are botanically perennial in suitable frost-free climates, but are normally grown as annuals in the UK.

Final Thoughts: Growing Aubergines Successfully in the UK

Growing aubergines in the UK is an enjoyable challenge that can produce fantastic results.

Although they need more warmth than many traditional British vegetables, aubergines can thrive when given suitable growing conditions.

The key to success is starting seeds early enough, providing consistent warmth, choosing suitable varieties and protecting plants from cold weather.

A greenhouse or polytunnel is particularly useful, but gardeners with sunny, sheltered patios can also enjoy growing aubergines in containers.

As plants develop, maintain consistent watering, provide suitable nutrients and monitor for common pests.

With patience and regular care, you can enjoy harvesting your own glossy aubergines throughout summer and into early autumn.

Whether you call them aubergines or eggplants, they’re a fantastic crop to experiment with and a rewarding addition to your vegetable-growing plans.

Keep smiling, keep shining, keep gardening with Ben!