Aubergine Seeds

Sow aubergine seeds for a summer harvest of glossy, gourmet fruits with a home-grown taste that beats shop-bought veg. Whether you want large fruits for moussaka or baby varieties for roasting, you’ll find the ideal variety here. Try the striking striped ‘Pinstripe F1’ for a visual feast. Maximize your greenhouse space by including Chilli & Sweet Pepper Seeds, which require identical growing conditions to your aubergines.

Use this quick guide to help find your perfect match:

Best For...	Variety Recommendation
Traditional Favourites	‘Black Beauty’ (Large & glossy)
Pots & Small Spaces	‘Patio Mix’ (Compact habit)
Seedless Fruits	‘Genie F1’ (No bitterness)
Gourmet Cooking	‘Pinstripe F1’ (Sweet striped flesh)

How to choose aubergine seeds

Aubergines (also known as eggplants) require a long, warm growing season. Choosing the right variety for your available space, whether that’s a heated greenhouse, a sunny windowsill, or a patio pot, is key to success. While they are a heat-loving crop ideal for greenhouses, modern breeding has produced hardy varieties that can crop successfully outdoors in sheltered spots or patio containers. These common questions and answers will help you decide which is best for you.

Can I grow aubergines outside in the UK?

Yes, you can grow aubergines outside in the UK if you choose the right variety. ‘Baby Black Jack F1’ is bred specifically to crop successfully outdoors in the UK, provided it has a warm, sheltered spot away from strong winds.

Do white or green aubergines taste different?

Yes, white or green aubergines taste a little different; they are often milder. Varieties like ‘White Knight’ and ‘Green Knight’ tend to have thinner skins and a creamier, less bitter flesh than traditional large purple types like ‘Black Beauty’. You don’t need to peel them, and they look great in a mixed roast!

Which aubergine seeds are best to grow in pots?

The best aubergine seeds to grow in pots are 'bush' or patio types. ‘Patio Mix’ is the top choice for containers; it stays compact and decorative while producing plenty of baby fruits without needing deep beds.

Why choose F1 Hybrid seeds over standard seeds?

Choosing F1 Hybrid seeds over standard seeds is often a good option for the UK climate, as they’re bred for vigour, heavier cropping, and better disease resistance. While F1 varieties like ‘Galine’ or ‘Genie’ are slightly more expensive than traditional open-pollinated types like ‘Black Beauty’, they offer greater reliability and consistency for the home gardener.

When should I buy and sow aubergine seeds?

Ideally, start them early, from February to March. Aubergines need a long, warm season to ripen, so sowing in a heated propagator (21-25°C) gives them the head start needed for a full harvest.

Why choose a "seedless" aubergine?

Seedless varieties like ‘Genie F1’ offer a creamier texture and zero bitterness. They are perfect if you want to skip the traditional kitchen step of salting the flesh before cooking.

For expert advice on germination and potting on, read our guide on how to grow aubergines from seed.

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