Black Beauty Eggplant

Saqueta Individual

€1,50

A classic aubergine with large, bright violet fruits that stand out both in the garden and on the plate.

About the variety. 'Black Beauty' produces globular, flattened fruits of deep violet with glossy skin, on plants 60–80 cm tall. Yields are very high and the fruits are prized for their firm flesh, excellent fried or marinated in olive oil.

€1,50

Itinerário técnico

Como cultivar black beauty eggplant?

Um guia de cultivo passo a passo, da sementeira à colheita.

pH ideal 5.5 and 6.5

Sementeira

In a seed tray, with transplanting to the final location about 8 weeks later.

Solo

Prefers fertile soils, as it is a fairly demanding crop, as well as well-drained to avoid root rot. Soil pH should be between 5.5 and 6.5. The soil should be worked to allow proper development of the taproot.

Clima

Growth is optimal at daytime temperatures between 22 and 30°C and night temperatures above 18°C; lower temperatures during this period lead to poor development of the pollen tube. In the week following transplanting, both daytime and night temperatures should be around 24°C to promote rapid growth and root establishment. Sites with good sun exposure are also well suited for cultivation.

Fertilização

It is a fairly demanding crop, so adequate base fertilization with compost should be carried out, and it can be supplemented with some mineral fertilizer (phosphorus and/or potassium).

Rega

Drip irrigation is recommended to help control the onset of diseases, while also allowing for a controlled water supply and achieving higher yields.

Controlo de Infestantes

Mulching is an interesting option for the crop, preventing competition from weeds.

Controlo de Pragas

Mites, Colorado potato beetle and thrips are common pests of this crop. Mites should be controlled through biological control using predatory mites; if necessary, azadirachtin or sulphur powder may also be applied (if T< 28°C). Colorado potato beetle can be controlled with biological treatment using Bacillus thuringiensis ssp. tenebrionis, with azadirachtin sprays as an alternative. Thrips are controlled by planting species that support anthocorid beneficial insects (marigolds or other composites) and through biological control with predatory mites and anthocorids.

Doenças

Powdery mildew and grey mould are two diseases of this crop. To control powdery mildew, wide plant spacing, moderate fertilisation without excess nitrogen and, if necessary, application of wettable sulphur powder alone or mixed with lithothamne (1:1) are recommended, as this makes it less phytotoxic. To control grey mould, diseased plant debris should be removed, excessive vigour avoided, water on the plants minimised (suitable drip irrigation used) and bentonite clay applied regularly.

Colheita

Aubergines can be stored at temperatures between 12 and 15°C and a relative humidity of 80%. Storing them alongside ethylene-producing fruits, such as tomatoes, is not recommended.