QUESTION TIME

GOT A FRUIT OR VEG PROBLEM? ASK KG FOR HELP

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AUBERGINE ANXIETIES

Q. Every year I grow quite a few aubergines. When they are growing strongly, some of the plants start to lose some leaves. It happens every year to about half the plants. It doesn't seem to affect the crop and they buck up again very quickly, but then it may happen again.

I find it very perplexing as all the plants are treated the same. It happens to soil-grown and pot-grown plants equally.

I would love to know what you think.

Cortina Grant, Hampshire

A. Leaf drop on aubergines is common and is usually due to natural ageing, water stress or inconsistent feeding – especially in pots. Older, lower leaves often yellow and fall as plants focus on fruiting. Swings between wet and dry can also trigger this, even if the top growth looks fine.

It could also suggest a nitrogen shortfall - liquid seaweed is a good tonic but not a complete feed, so alternate it with a high-potash fertiliser. Poor airflow in greenhouses can add to stress, so boost ventilation. Check the undersides of leaves for red spider mite or aphids, which can cause mottling or leaf curling.

Since your plants recover and crop well, it's not a major concern - just a seasonal wobble.

MELON MELTDOWN