Aubergine Turkish Orange Seeds

Info: Aubergine `Turkish Orange` is an African species (the purple and white varieties we are more familiar with are Asian) with a beautiful orange colour with stripes, shape and size of tennis balls and an incredibly rich, non-bitter flavour. And even though Turkish Orange is always photographed in its full deep orange regalia, the fruit is actually best picked when the fruits begin to turn from green to cream. They may not look as pretty on the chopping board at this stage, but their sweet succulence is at its height! And the best part is that this plant is robust and petite enough to grow in patio containers. The aubergines are suitable for grilling, roasting or baking.

Sowing & cultivation: Sow January to April for growing under glass or from May on outdoors. Sow 2-5mm (¼ in) deep, but do not exclude light as this helps germination. Acclimatise plants to outdoor conditions for 10 to 15 days. Plant out into sheltered site when all risk of frost has passed with a distance of 40 to 50 cm. They need a sunny and sheltered place and hand pollination will improve the set of the first blossoms. Feed every 14 days with high potash (tomato or chili) fertiliser once the first fruits have set.