Eggplant Ping Tung Long

(1 customer review)

$4.49

Solanum Melongena

  • Seed Count 15
  • Thin Skinned
  • Annual

In stock

Description

The Eggplant Ping Tung Long is a variety of eggplant originating from Taiwan. It is known for its elongated shape and vibrant purple color.

They are valued for their mild flavour and are less bitter than some larger eggplant varieties.

It is a thin skinned fruit which does not need to be peeled to be eaten.

Harvest at around 20cm, when they are perfect for stir-fries and heavenly in Thai-style red curry.

Ping Tung Long eggplants are well-suited for stir-frying, grilling, and roasting due to their thin skin and creamy flesh, which cooks quickly and absorbs flavors well.

They are very popular in Asian cuisine and can be used in a variety of dishes, from curries to salads.

This variety is favoured in gardens because it is relatively easy to grow, resistant to common pests, and highly productive, yielding a substantial number of fruits throughout the growing season.

It thrives in warm climates and requires a sunny location with well-drained soil for optimal growth.

Find your Climate Zone

Method: Set seedlings
Soil Temp: 24°C - 32°C
Cool Mountain: Sep - Jan
Position: Full sun
Arid: Oct - Jan
Row Spacing: 70 cm
Temperate: Aug - Jan
Harvest: 80 Days
Sub Tropical: Aug - Feb
Planting Depth: 5 mm
Tropical: Apr - Jul
Plant Height: 1 m

Climate

  • They can be grown year-round in warmer regions but are typically planted from late spring to early autumn.
  • Frost can be detrimental, so ensure they are planted after the last frost date in cooler regions.

Soil:

  • Eggplants prefer loamy, well-draining soils rich in organic matter.
  • Soil pH should be between 5.5 and 7.0.
  • Conduct a soil test before planting and amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure to improve nutrient levels.

Sunlight:

  • Full sun is essential for healthy growth.
  • Aim for at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
  • Select a site that receives plenty of sun exposure, potentially near a south-facing wall for extra warmth, especially in cooler areas.

Preparing for Planting

Starting Seeds Indoors:

  • Start seeds indoors about 8-10 weeks before the last expected frost date.
  • Sow seeds in seed-starting trays filled with seed-raising mix.
  • Keep the trays in a warm location (about 24-32°C) and ensure they receive ample light
  • Consider grow lights if natural light is insufficient.

Transplanting Outdoors:

  • Once seedlings are about 10-15 cm tall and all risk of frost has passed, harden them off by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions.
  • Transplant outdoors, spacing plants 70 cm apart in rows about 70 cm apart to allow for adequate growth and air circulation.

Growing Care

Watering:

  • Eggplants need consistent moisture to develop properly.
  • Water at the base of the plant to minimize leaves getting wet, which can lead to fungal diseases.
  • Aim for a total of 2.5-5 cm of water per week, depending on rainfall and temperature. Consider using drip irrigation for efficiency.

Fertilising:

  • Fertilise with a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
  • A high potassium fertiliser may be beneficial once fruit development begins, promoting larger and healthier eggplants.

Mulching:

  • Apply a layer of organic mulch (straw, grass clippings, or shredded leaves) around the plants to conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and maintain an even soil temperature.

Beneficial Companions for Eggplant

Basil:

  • Benefits: Basil enhances the flavour of eggplant and can help repel pests like aphids and spider mites.
  • Planting Tip: Sow basil seeds or transplant seedlings around your eggplants to form a beneficial relationship.

Marigold:

  • Benefits: Marigolds attract beneficial insects, repel nematodes, and can deter common pests such as aphids and whiteflies.
  • Planting Tip: Plant marigolds near the eggplant to create a protective border that keeps pests at bay.

Beans:

  • Benefits: Beans can fix nitrogen in the soil, improving nutrient availability for eggplants, while also providing a trellis for climbing varieties.
  • Planting Tip: Plant beans near eggplants, but avoid excessive shading, as eggplants require full sun.

Onion and Garlic:

  • Benefits: Both onions and garlic can deter pests like aphids and beetles while adding flavour to your garden.
  • Planting Tip: Interplant onions or garlic around your eggplants to create a natural pest barrier.

Lettuce and Spinach:

  • Benefits: These leafy greens can help shade the soil around eggplants, keeping moisture levels consistent and reducing weed competition.
  • Planting Tip: Sow lettuce or spinach seeds between eggplant plants; they’ll mature quickly and can be harvested before the eggplants begin to spread.

Plants to Avoid

Potatoes:

  • As another member of the nightshade family, they can attract similar pests and diseases that may affect eggplants.

Tomatoes:

  • Similar to potatoes, tomatoes can compete for nutrients and attract shared diseases and pests.

Carrots:

  • They can compete for space and nutrients with eggplants, especially in smaller gardens.

Fennel:

  • Fennel inhibits the growth of eggplants, due to its allelopathic properties.

Pest and Disease Management

Common Pests:

  • Aphids: Small insects that can weaken plants. Control with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
  • Spider Mites: Thrive in dry conditions, causing stippling on leaves. Keep foliage moist and control with water sprays or insecticidal soap.
  • Whiteflies: Can be removed by introducing beneficial insects like ladybugs or using sticky traps.

Diseases:

  • Fungal Diseases (e.g., powdery mildew): Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering. Use fungicides if necessary.
  • Root Rot: Avoid overwatering and ensure good drainage to prevent this disease.

Harvesting:

  • Harvest eggplants when they are firm, glossy, and the appropriate size (usually 10-20 cm long, depending on the variety).
  • Use pruning shears or a sharp knife to cut the fruit from the plant, leaving a short stem attached.
  • Regular harvesting can encourage more fruit production.

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