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Introduction
African eggplant (Solanaceous
aethiopicum) is also known as garden eggs, mock tomato,
ngogwe or nyanya chungu. The crop appreciates the
warm, non-humid conditions found throughout the savannah belt
of West and East Africa. The optimal temperature for the crop
is 23–35 °C during days and 18–25 °C during
nights. It can grow on a wide range of well-drained soils. The
optimum pH of the soil is between 5.5 and 6.8.
Sowing
Sow seeds in nursery beds along lines spaced 20 cm apart and
cover with a thin layer of soil. Seedlings should be thinned
to 2 cm apart to avoid spindly plants. After about five weeks
when the plants are 15 cm high, they are ready for transplanting.
Seedlings should be watered well before uprooting and again immediately
after transplanting. The spacing is usually 75 x 75 cm or 60
x 90 cm.
Crop management
A fertile soil is needed for good yields. Incorporate 5 tons
of well-decomposed manure per 1000 m2
prior to planting. Supplementary
fertilization with 25 kg of 15-15-15 compound fertilizer per
1000 m2 two weeks after transplanting is desirable. A further
10 kg of fertilizer should be applied at the flowering stage.
This application should be repeated after the first harvest.
Mulching is recommended during the dry season to keep the soil
moist. Do not place the mulch (usually grass) too close to the
stem as it might cause collar rot.
Irrigation is most critical during the flowering and fruit setting
stages. Sandy soils with limited organic matter should be irrigated
three times per week whereas for loamy soils with organic matter,
twice a week is generally adequate. Pests and diseases are rarely
problematic.
Harvesting
and postharvest
For most varieties, farmers should harvest the fruit before the
skin becomes tough and changes color. The exceptions are those
varieties that are consumed fresh for the sweet fruit. The fruit
should be cut off with a knife or pruning scissors to prevent
damage to the plant.
Harvesting should be regular even when there is no market for
the fruit, as it is needed to encourage subsequent fruit development.
If fruits are left on the plants, seeds will develop and few
new fruit will be formed. During warm weather it is advisable
to harvest very early in the morning or towards the evening.
Keep the produce in a cool, shaded place.
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