How to grow Aubergine in the UK
Solanum melongena
Aubergine (Solanum melongena) is a vegetable that grows well in UK gardens. Greenhouse-only crop in UK. Limit to 4-6 fruits per plant for best size. This guide covers when and how to sow Aubergine, the soil and position it likes, watering and feeding, companion planting, and when to harvest.
When to sow & grow Aubergine
Sowing and harvest window through the year (UK):
Jan | Feb Sow | Mar | Apr | May Plant | Jun | Jul | Aug Harvest | Sep Harvest | Oct Harvest | Nov | Dec |
Soil, position & care
- Soil
- Rich soil or pots
- Soil pH
- 6.0–6.8
- Position
- Warm greenhouse or sunniest sheltered spot
- Sowing depth
- 0.5 cm
- Spacing
- 60 cm apart
- Sowing
- Sow indoors Feb–Mar at 21°C
- Growing
- Feed high-potash; mist to deter red spider mite
- Harvest & upkeep
- Limit to 4–5 fruits per plant outdoors
- Watch for
- Red spider mite, whitefly, aphids
Companion planting for Aubergine
Grows well with:
Add Aubergine to your free 12-month plan and get watering & sowing reminders — no sign-up needed.
Aubergine FAQs
When should I sow Aubergine in the UK?
In the UK, sow Aubergine in February. Sowing across these months gives the plant the right soil temperature and day length to establish well.
What grows well with Aubergine?
Aubergine grows well alongside Basil, French Marigold, Pot Marigold, Nasturtium. Good companions can deter pests, attract pollinators or make better use of space.
How much sun does Aubergine need?
Aubergine prefers full sun (6+ hrs direct).
When is Aubergine ready to harvest?
Aubergine is typically ready to harvest in August, September, October in the UK.
Is Aubergine easy to grow?
Challenging. Greenhouse-only crop in UK. Limit to 4-6 fruits per plant for best size.