While until recently eggplants were mostly grown in the traditional purple color and were considered a rare, exquisite vegetable, many different varieties have recently appeared with colors ranging from striped to red, green and white.

However, a more important role when choosing a variety is played by the timing of technical ripeness, taste, and yield.

It's quite difficult to choose an eggplant. The best varieties for open ground are familiar only to experienced gardeners, but beginners sometimes have difficulty and try to purchase several varieties of different ripening periods.

What requirements must the most popular eggplant varieties meet?

To be able to enjoy tasty and healthy vegetables grown in your own beds, you need to try to choose the appropriate variety of eggplant, because this southern representative of vegetable plants has certain growing requirements.

Good varieties should have the following qualities:

• High degree of productivity;
• Resistance to diseases and pests;
• Resistance to adverse weather conditions;
• The pulp is desirable to have no bitterness and the presence of a small number of seeds;
• Thin skin and tender white flesh;
• Not too long growing season.

In super-early varieties, technical ripeness of the fruit occurs in approximately 105-110 days, in mid-ripening varieties - 115-130 days, in late-ripening varieties - 135-150 days. In very late varieties, the growing season can reach 6 months, so they generally try to plant eggplants with early and mid-ripening periods. Gardeners living in warm regions of Russia should like “Black Beauty,” which meets almost all the requirements for the best variety. Subject to the required agricultural technology, it is capable of producing up to 8 kg of yield per square meter.

10 ideal eggplant varieties for open ground

The best varieties of eggplants for open ground, intended for growing both in the southern regions and in the Moscow region, it is advisable to choose early ripening ones; with good and competent care, they will be able to bear fruit for a long time.

• Purple miracle– the variety is characterized by high yield with greenish-colored pulp, no bitterness, weight reaches 120 g, you can harvest up to 14 kg from 1 m2;
• Joker– this variety has cluster fruit set, up to 7 eggplants can form on one branch, tall bushes are literally covered with them, have a thin peel of a bright purple color, the variety calmly tolerates short-term cold snaps;
• Negus- a variety that allows you to grow a good harvest of cylindrical fruits weighing up to 250-270 g without much hassle;
• A gardener's dream– it begins to bear fruit early, the fruits grow cylindrical, weighing up to 170 g, are perfectly stored after being picked from the bush, the white flesh has no bitterness;
• King of the North F1– cold-resistant, with fruits of dark purple color, produces up to 12-15 kg of eggplant of excellent taste per 1 m2.

The best varieties of eggplant for open ground with an average ripening period:

• King of the market– has a high degree of yield, the fruits grow up to 20 cm long, with white, tender and tasty pulp;
• Marzipan– experts give this variety a very high rating for its taste, fruits of a beautiful oblong shape up to 16 cm long, weighing 100-120 g;
• Bagheera F1– the hybrid has an excellent yield of large fruits, suitable for planting in open ground in the Moscow region;
• Sancho Panza– a variety with excellent yield indicators, its spherical fruits sometimes reach almost a kilogram weight, but on average the weight of eggplants reaches 0.5-0.6 kg, the pulp has an excellent taste;
• Simferopolsky 12/105– the fruit is valued for its excellent taste, beautiful fruits that set well and ripen quickly, but they are not suitable for processing for long-term storage; it is best to use eggplants of the “Simferopol” variety for preparing quick dishes.

Conditions for cultivating eggplants

Seedlings of heat-loving vegetables should be planted in open ground only after truly warm weather has established, or for the first time after planting it will be necessary to build a temporary shelter.

If the area is small, to save space, it is recommended to choose varieties with a compact form of bushes with a planting density of 5 plants per 1 m2; for spreading bushes, a sparser placement is required - 3 plants per 1 m2.

To prepare the soil most suitable for eggplants, you need to add humus, sand, complex mineral fertilizers, and dolomite flour to the bed for digging.

You need to choose an area for sun-loving vegetables that is open, but protected from cold winds; for this, tall plants can be planted on the north side as a backdrop.

To reap a good harvest, eggplants need to be provided with a sufficient amount of water; its lack immediately has a negative impact on the growth and formation of bushes.

VIDEO: how to plant eggplants?

From this video you will learn general rules for caring for eggplant seedlings, suitable for growing any of the listed varieties:

The best varieties of eggplants description photos reviews

This page contains varieties and hybrids of eggplants for greenhouses and open ground, tall and short, early and mid-season, of various colors, shapes and sizes.

Eggplant Diamond

Mid-season eggplant variety for cultivation in open ground. The period from full germination to harvest is 110 - 150 days (depending on the growing region). In the middle zone, it is recommended to plant seedlings in greenhouses and film shelters. The variety is resistant to drought and other adverse weather conditions. Suitable for mechanized cleaning.

The Almaz eggplant variety was included in the State Register and approved for use in the Ural, Far Eastern, Middle Volga, Lower Volga, Central Black Earth, Western Siberian and North Caucasus regions.

The bush is compact, 50–55 cm high. The leaves are green, medium in size, broadly oval in shape. The corolla is light purple. The calyx is greenish-purple, without thorns, which makes harvesting easier.

The fruits are glossy, cylindrical, 14.5-17.5 cm long, 3 to 6 cm wide. At biological maturity, eggplants are brownish-brown in color. The average weight of the fruit is 100-165 g. The pulp is greenish, dense in consistency, not bitter.

Productivity eggplant Diamond: 2.1 - 7.5 kg/sq. m.

Advantages of the variety: high and stable yield, unpretentiousness, good taste of fruits, excellent transportability.

Flaws: A large number of seeds in eggplants, the lower fruits are in contact with the soil.

Eggplant King of the North

An early ripening hybrid, stable with stable yield and excellent fruit set. The period from full germination to the first harvest (technical ripeness) is 95–100 days. This hybrid was bred specifically for the harsh climatic conditions of the northern regions of our country, which is why it received such a name.

This variety is recommended to be grown in open ground. Even in Siberian conditions it is possible to obtain good harvests in open ground. When grown in greenhouses and greenhouses, the plant is too hot, and there is also a risk of spider mite damage.

Bush over 1 meter high. Stems are bright purple. The fruits are elongated-cylindrical, glossy, black-violet in color, 25-30 cm long (sometimes 40 cm). The pulp is white, excellent taste, without bitterness. The peduncle has no thorns.

This is a long-bearing hybrid. Each plant bears up to 10 fruits.

Eggplant yield King of the North: 12 – 15 kg/sq. m.

Planting scheme: 60 x 40 cm.

Advantages eggplant King of the North: cold resistance, ease of care, lack of barren flowers, resistance to fungal diseases and temperature changes.

Flaws: Due to their large size, eggplants touch the ground, so it is advisable to mulch the soil under them with sawdust or straw.

Your reviews of the King of the North eggplant will help many gardeners evaluate it objectively and decide whether to plant this hybrid or not.

Eggplant Marzipan

Mid-season, medium-ripening from the company Russian Vegetable Garden. The period from germination to technical ripeness is 120–125 days. This variety tolerates the heat and drought of the south well, but is also perfect for growing in northern regions.

A bush of this variety requires support, since under the weight of the fruit it can fall to the ground.

The fruits are very fleshy, without bitterness and practically without seeds, and have a sweetish aftertaste. The peel is glossy, dark purple in color. The average weight of the fruit is 300-400 grams, length - up to 15 cm.

Advantages Marzipan varieties: excellent fruit taste, resistance to unfavorable growing conditions.

Productivity eggplant Marzipan: 1.5-2.5 kg per plant.

Eggplant Epic

Early maturing classic Dutch hybrid eggplant. Included in the State Register of the Russian Federation in 2008. Recommended for cultivation in the southern regions. The period from planting seedlings in the ground to technical ripeness is 65 days.

The bush is powerful, tall (90–100 cm), erect, semi-spreading, with high growth energy. The stem is medium pubescent, with anthocyanin coloring from weak to medium intensity. The leaves are green, medium size.

The fruits are glossy, cylindrical, uniform in shape and size (average length - 22 cm, diameter - 10 cm), dark purple in color, weighing 220 - 230 grams. Eggplant pulp is dense, white, without bitterness and practically without seeds. The calyx is covered with sparsely spaced spines.

Productivity eggplant Epic: up to 5.8 kg per sq. m.

Advantages: high yield, resistance to temperature changes and tobacco mosaic virus, excellent taste of the fruit.

Eggplant Black handsome

Mid-season eggplant variety for open ground and greenhouses. The period from germination to harvest is 110 – 145 days. The originator of the variety is the Poisk company. The variety is included in the State Register for the Central Black Earth and North Caucasus regions of the Russian Federation.

The bush is semi-spreading, 60-80 cm high, with short internodes. The stems are pubescent, with anthocyanin coloring. The leaves are green, medium-sized, slightly toothed, with thorns.

The fruits are elongated pear-shaped, glossy, smooth, weighing 110–200 g, 18–20 cm long, purple-black at full maturity. The pulp is yellowish, tender, without bitterness, practically without seeds. The skin is thin.

Eggplant yield Black handsome: up to 6.5 kg per 1 sq. m.

Advantages of the variety: high yield, disease resistance, unpretentiousness, smooth ripening and high taste of fruits.

Eggplant Clorinda

Mid-early, super-yielding Dutch eggplant hybrid of high commercial quality for fresh consumption and processing. It can be grown in open ground, under film covers, or in a greenhouse.

The bush is erect with short internodes, 90-100 cm high. The leaves are medium sized, green.

The fruits are oval, up to 25 cm long and up to 12 cm wide, at the ripe stage they are diamond-black, glossy, with dense whitish pulp and almost without seeds. No bitterness. The weight of an eggplant can reach 1.5 kg.

It is recommended to sow eggplant seeds for seedlings in mid-February, to a depth of 1-1.5 cm. Hybrid eggplant seeds germinate in 7 to 14 days, depending on temperature, humidity, and seed freshness. When planting seedlings in a permanent place, it is advisable to maintain a distance of 25-30 cm in the row and 50-60 cm between the rows.

Productivity eggplant Clorinda F1 high.

Eggplant Bourgeois

Early ripening (period from germination to ripening 105-110 days), high-yielding, large-fruited eggplant hybrid for open ground and film shelters.

The bush is powerful, semi-spreading, of medium height. The leaves are medium sized, green, with notched edges.

The fruits are spherical, smooth, shiny, black-violet in color, weighing 400-500 g, of high taste. The eggplant flesh is greenish-white and tender. These eggplants are recommended for all types of culinary processing.

This eggplant is sown for seedlings at the end of February, and then planted in open ground when the threat of return frosts has passed. Planting scheme in the ground: 40 x 60 cm.

The value of the hybrid: a combination of early ripeness and large fruit, lack of bitterness in the fruits, long fruiting period.

Eggplant yield Bourgeois 1.5-2 kg per 1 plant.

Video about eggplant marzipan

Eggplant varieties features characteristics in the photo

Famous eggplants that produce stable large yields: Bourgeois, City F1, Albatross, Bard F1, Goliath F1, Dolphin, Filimon, Black Moon, Czech Early, Vera. A rich harvest can be harvested by growing early varieties, as well as medium and late ripe varieties:

Sancho Panza mid-early, grown by seedling method. The shape of the fruit is spherical, fiery purple in color, large, weighing 650-700 grams, one eggplant is enough to prepare a dish for the whole family, easy to prepare. Cultivated in unheated, heated, winter greenhouses, cultivation in open ground is possible;

Eustoma growing from seeds at home photo variety When to sow seedlings

Among gardeners, the splendor of eustoma from the Gentian family is of particular interest. Indian legend says that the flower first appeared on the grave of an innocent maiden, killed by the formidable Spirit of War, after refusing to marry him. The homeland of this picturesque flower is North and South America, Mexico, and the Caribbean Islands.

The name, accurately translated from Latin, means “beautiful mouth,” and in the literary version it means “beautifully speaking.” It is also called "lisianthus", bitter flower, Irish/Japanese rose, Texas bluebell, "blooming flower". The color of its inflorescences is also similar to the different interpretations of the names: pink, white, yellow, blue, violet, purple or with a border of a contrasting color.

Description of eustoma

Lisianthus or eustoma.

Upon closer examination of the flower, it is noticeable that its external similarity with rose buds is complemented by a number of differences in stems, leaves, number of inflorescences and their structures, life expectancy on the soil and indoors.

Description of eustoma

Popular types and varieties of eustoma

When to plant seeds for seedlings

About soil preparation and seed selection

Picking eustoma

How to care for seedlings

Planting eustoma in a permanent place in the ground

Caring for eustoma in summer

Graceful but strong stems without thorns reach almost a meter in height. Due to the strong branching from the middle of the stem, the flower resembles a bouquet filled with numerous alternately blooming buds. Their number can number up to 40 pieces.

Oval, cylindrical, matte, waxy leaves have bluish or grayish tints. The lisanthus flower, up to 8 cm in diameter, has a large, deep, funnel-shaped cup. A half-opened bud looks like a bell or a rose, and an open one looks like a double poppy.

It pleases with the bright originality of the inflorescences, starting from the first summer month until the very frost. The advantages of eustoma also include a long period of preservation of freshness and flowering - more than 20 days. If you grow it in a winter garden or greenhouse, you can count on repeated flowering.

In open ground, the natural lifespan of eustoma is 2 years, but gardeners grow it more often as an annual plant. But lovers of indoor plants manage to make this flower a perennial.

Populartypes and varieties of eustoma

Since the discovery of the delights of this amazing representative of the flora, breeders have bred more than 60 of its varieties, hybrids in different color variations. Therefore, the first step when growing a flower is choosing the right variety. After all, each of them has features of appearance, namely:

• Stem height
• Terryness or lack thereof
• Coloring
• Germination rate
• Disease resistance, susceptibility to temperature fluctuations and light conditions.

Based on the height, eustoma is divided into:

• Dwarf (up to 50 cm) – adapted for reproduction indoors, on balconies, and enclosed terraces. This Mermaid, LittleBell, Fidelity, FloridaPink and so on.
• Tall (over half a meter), grown in open ground. They are usually intended for cutting. The following varieties deserve attention here: Aurora, Echo, Heidi, Flamenco.

Based on the external structure of the inflorescence, two types are distinguished:

• Non-double ( Single) They are distinguished by elegance, sophistication, and elegance of colors. These are varieties such as: Kyoto, Mermaid, Sapphire, Charm, Laguna, Piccolo, etc.
• Terry (Double) with large full buds (diameter up to 10 cm) in different colors are presented in the varieties ABC, Borealis, Dream (Eсho), Mariachi, Rosita.

We suggest you briefly familiarize yourself with the features of the most common variety series:

Simple eustoma:

Hybrids of the Kyoto-F1 series are characterized by large flowers with a variety of colors and shapes. The fast-growing, early-flowering variety White is especially popular.

Hybrids of the Kyoto F1 series

Mermaid is undersized with flowers in pink, purple, lilac tones

Twinkie (short) with white, yellow, pink, light purple tones

Flamenco (tall) has delicate shades of pink, blue, yellow

Little Bell (short) with profusely blooming small multi-colored buds

Terry eustoma:

Eustoma rosea variety Picot Pink.

ABC has a white, light yellow, lilac color with pink and purple edging around the edges

Aurora is a tall species with flowers of white, pink, blue, and white. This variety blooms almost a month earlier than others

Cinderella attracts with the height of the stem, the variety of color mixtures (yellow and pink palette)

Echo (tall) are distinguished by monochromatic fluffy inflorescences in lavender, pink, yellow, white tones

Picotte, where the leading varieties are Blue, Pink, and Wine Red. This series features tall stems, large inflorescences in a bright red palette

Magic with a high stem is characterized as a multi-colored super-double variant of the Japanese selection.

Sapphire Series

In this far from complete list, it is worth mentioning the undersized Sapphire series of Russian selection, which is represented among both simple and Terry eustema flowers. With a small stature of up to 15 cm, they are not afraid of darkened places and delight with their rich colors with pink or blue borders. The varieties Blue/Pink Haze, BlueChip, Pink Rim, etc. are very popular.

When choosing, preference is now given to 1st generation hybrids, which are designated as “F1”. Their advantage is increased viability due to crossing different varieties, genetic stability.

The advantages also include the suitability of seeds for growing in our climate (duration of natural light, temperature level, good germination, greater stability).

When to plant seeds for seedlings

When sowing seeds for growing seedlings, it is important to remember that the period from the first shoots to the beginning of flowering is more than 5 months. Only a month after planting, the eustoma loses its color.

Therefore, seeds should be sown at the optimal time: November-January. Based on the fact that this is a time of short daylight, when growing seedlings for open ground, lighting will be required.

If this is planned for indoor conditions, the sowing of seeds can be shifted to a later time (March) and without additional lighting.

Seed germination becomes visible after about a week. At first, small shoots appear and develop rather weakly, as roots grow. This is a period of increasing time for ventilation, adaptation of seedlings to the air, and increased attention to the state of soil moisture. According to experienced gardeners, it is better to use boiled water at room temperature for watering.

Growing eustoma at home

About soil preparation and seed selection

After selecting and purchasing planting material, you should prepare light soil with a neutral reaction in the form of a mixture: equal parts of garden soil with humus of tree bark, peat, sand.

An alternative to preparing it yourself is to purchase ready-made soil for indoor violets. Before use, the soil mixture must be disinfected: fry it in the oven or pour boiling water over it, and then pour it over with a solution of potassium permanganate.

Considering the small size of Irish rose seeds, it is recommended to choose them in enlarged granular (pelletized) form. The existing shell provides a minimum of protective nutrients that these seedlings need at first.

To speed up germination and facilitate the emergence of sprouts, you need to carefully destroy the granule shell by piercing it (usually it dissolves on its own due to moisture).

Selecting containers for proper sowing

To plant seeds, you can use ordinary plastic cups, food containers with lids, provided that proper soil drainage is ensured. However, it is preferable to purchase seedling boxes, special containers, and even better, peat tablets from specialized stores. To further create favorable growing conditions indoors, you will need a large flower pot.

Before planting, the substrate placed in the container must be leveled, well moistened and excess water allowed to drain. Then make small depressions, “nests” and place one seed in them at a distance of up to 1.5 cm from each other, without covering it with soil mixture, but only lightly pressing it. After this, to dissolve the protective shell, moisten the entire contents again. To avoid “spreading” of the seeds, it is better to do this using a spray bottle.

This is what the first eustoma shoots and cotyledon leaves look like

Sowing in peat tablets

The use of peat tablets requires knowledge of some subtleties. For example, they must be of medium size with a diameter of at least 4 cm. Before planting the seeds, they must be placed in a container disinfected with potassium permanganate and filled with water. After the tablets have swollen, drain off the excess water and press holes into them with a toothpick or a pointed match, into which to place the seeds. For better germination, its shell can be carefully broken using the same toothpick.

And in this photo the eustoma has its first true leaves

After filling any of the containers, you need to cover them with a transparent lid, plastic film to create a greenhouse effect, and place them under a fluorescent lamp with “daylight” light, thus providing a 12-hour daylight hours. It is important to observe the temperature regime (up to 25° during the day and 20° at night), and regularly provide moderate watering of the planted seeds.

Eustoma - planting in a jar and in boiling water: video

Picking eustoma

At the picking stage, plants are transplanted into larger containers. A favorable time for carrying it out is the early stages of sprout development, since delaying can lead to damage to heavily overgrown roots. For this very scrupulous procedure, you will need means to pry up the plants (for example, a thin awl) and create indentations (pencils).

After 3-4 pairs of leaves and roots appear on the soil surface, future seedlings can be carefully transplanted into pots with a diameter of up to 7 cm. The hole should allow the root system to be freely placed, and its neck to remain level with the ground. After moistening the soil with fungicide, the plants are covered again and remain dormant for 2 weeks.

If we are talking about seedlings in tablets, it is necessary to remove or cut the shell. After this, you need to place the tablet with the sprout in a pot and fill the voids with the same soil mixture as when planting the seeds, and then compact it.

When 5-6 leaves appear, the seedlings are replanted. Tall varieties for open ground are transplanted into a larger pot from mid-March, and low-growing varieties for a room/balcony are moved straight into the pot. Upon completion of picking, a decrease in temperature (up to 20 °) and shading of plants are allowed.

How to care forSeedlingsseedlings

Successful cultivation of seedlings can be achieved by following the above recommendations. After picking, caring for seedlings consists of preventing both waterlogging and drying out of the soil; adaptation to air; regular feeding; pest control. To this end, it is important to stick to the “golden mean” and constantly monitor the development of seedlings.

To do this, pay attention to the following:

• Watering should be careful without Moisture getting on the leaves. The best way to moisten here is from below, directly into the tray.
• Regular fertilizing is carried out every 7-10 days with soluble mineral fertilizers. During active growth, reinforcement with organic matter and nitrogen is required, and in the process of formation of buds and buds - with phosphorus and potassium
• Constant ventilation and elimination of excess condensation on the lids that cover containers with seedlings. This allows you to avoid waterlogging, the appearance of pests, damage by powdery mildew, gray mold, fusarium and other diseases.
• Forming a dense, lush, compact appearance of the plant by pinching. However, this shifts the timing of the appearance of the first inflorescences by almost 14 days.

Growing Eustoma (Lisianthus) from seeds: video

Planting eustoma in a permanent place in the ground

The signal for planting seedlings in open ground is the presence of 4 to 6 true leaves. Before doing this, you should choose a well-lit or slightly shaded, windless place not subject to drafts. Preferred places for this southerner will be in the east or west of the site. The soil here should be neutral, fairly loose, without any prerequisites for water stagnation.

Preparing the site consists of digging up the soil (1 shovel size), applying mineral fertilizers evenly distributed over the area (azophoska, nitrophoska, etc.). If the soil is highly acidic, it will be necessary to add wood ash or dolomite flour.

It is recommended to “relocate” the eustoma to a permanent place during a period when there is no threat of frost and the night air temperature rises to + 18°C. For the middle zone, the last days of the 2nd decade of June are considered the most optimal planting time.

The best way to do this is by carefully “transferring” the seedlings along with a lump of earth in the evening in cloudy weather, maintaining the required distance between shoots of about 20 cm. Negligence in this matter due to thin roots can irreversibly damage such fragile plants.

When planting, try to ensure that the level of soil filling for the sprouts in the holes is the same as in the pots. The planted seedlings should then be well watered without getting moisture on the leaves. After this, in order to maintain its moisture for a longer period of time and to avoid cracking of the earth, mulching with peat will be required.

It is important to remember that plants should not be planted near stone fences, walls, or metal fences, which can cause them to burn. To protect from direct sunlight, just a few weeks after planting, it is necessary to cover the still immature seedlings with jars and plastic bottles.

Caring for eustoma in summer

The main conditions for proper care of these flowers in the summer are maintaining moisture and looseness of the soil, and the absence of weeds. After all, overdrying will cause the buds to drop, and overmoistening will cause damage to the stems and their death. Here it is necessary to ensure moderation of water supply as the soil dries out. When watering, you need to avoid getting even drops on flowers or buds in order to prevent damage to their appearance and create conditions for rotting processes.

Special products (phytospiron, foundationazole, etc.) help protect eustoma planted in open ground from various types of fungi in rainy times. To do this, you can use pre-prepared liquid fertilizers with a low concentration.

After the seedlings have rooted, a month after planting, you can start fertilizing. You can start fertilizing with any mineral product for flowers that dissolves well in water (plantofol, kemira, etc.). When fertilizing, you should not increase the recommended concentration of fertilizers and the amount of fertilizer applied. After all, eustoma does not require intensive nutrient consumption. For fertile, humus-rich soil, it is enough to do this a maximum of 3 times over the entire season.

An important point is to create optimal lighting and ventilation. Therefore, it is necessary to regulate the brightness of the light and, if necessary, ensure its diffusion by shading with available materials. And one more thing - a flower that came to us from a humid, warm climate can delight us with healthy growth and color only in fresh, not dry air.

Don't forget that tall varieties of lisianthus need staking because their own weight bends their long stems towards the ground. To do this, it is good to install a decorative support that will harmoniously combine with the color palette of the eustoma and the overall design of the site.

In order to extend the flowering period, spent buds are removed. Those who wish to collect seeds themselves can leave a few of those that began to bloom earlier than others.

Similarly, favorable conditions are created regarding lighting, watering, and fertilizing for caring for eustoma, which is also grown in pots on window sills or balconies. In cold, rainy weather, unlike flowers growing in open ground, they can be moved to another place.

Following these rules will allow you to enjoy the fruits of your labor and enjoy the first tender buds of eustoma already in the middle of summer.

BEST SECRETS

Eggplant, a longevity vegetable.

In Ukraine and southern Russia they are called “little blue” - such a cute, homely nickname has stuck with this vegetable. However, it is not a vegetable at all, but very much a berry from the nightshade family. Little blue ones are not only blue, but also yellow and even white.



It is impossible to imagine a summer menu without eggplants. And at other times of the year, if you wish, you can make “overseas caviar” from store-bought eggplant. And not only caviar, but also the other hundred or two dishes withlongevity vegetable, as the Arabs who cultivated it called the eggplant. They, thanks to them, brought eggplant seeds to Europe in the 15th century. And Europe, 4 centuries later, also began to cultivate eggplant.

Benefits of eggplant.

This berry has many advantages. Eggplant can be placed in the place of honor in the refrigerator just for the potassium it contains. What is potassium for our body? This is the work of the heart muscle, this is the state of muscle tissue, this is the nervous system, after all.



Here's what else eggplant can do:
- regulate water-salt balance;
- reduce cholesterol levels;
- stimulate liver function;
- maintain acid-base balance.
It also breaks down fats perfectly, so if you’re on a diet, don’t forget to include eggplant dishes in your menu.

Harm to eggplant.

Yes, eggplant also has certain harm. Whose name issolanine. Solanumin Latin - nightshade. Solanine, a poisonous glycoalkaloid, is produced in all plants of the nightshade family. That's why you can't eat green potatoes? Because a green tuber is a sign of high solanine content. In eggplant, solanine is found mainly in the peel. And also in the seeds - those that have managed to acquire a brown color. However, avoiding the harmful effects of solanine and getting your share of the benefits from eggplant is quite easy and simple.

How to choose eggplants.

Rule number one:do not chase large specimens. It is those that are larger, darker and riper that contain the most solanine. Its weight also indicates that the eggplant is too mature - the more mature the eggplant, the lighter it is. Choose eggplants that are firm, not too dark and not too “airy” inside - the weight of an average-sized eggplant should be at least 200 grams. When pressed with your finger, there should be no trace left on the eggplant skin. Such a “specimen” will definitely have light-colored seeds. By the way, when cut, overripe eggplant darkens quickly - this is also a sign of increased solanine. In general, we choose eggplants that are younger and slimmer.



Rule number two:choose eggplants with fresh, not dried out tails. A dry tail eloquently indicates that the eggplant is no longer as young as we would like.

Why cut off the “tail” of the eggplant away from the stem?
In this place of the eggplant the concentration of nitrates is highest. So, we cut without sparing, “without waiting for peritonitis!”



How to reduce the amount of harmful substances in eggplant?
The amount of solanine is significantly reduced if cut eggplants are salted, waited until they release their juice, and rinsed with water. Bitterness comes out along with the juice - this is solanine. Another way is to soak the eggplants in salt water for 20 minutes.
When frying and boiling, the amount of nitrates automatically decreases: when frying - by 10%, when cooking for 15 minutes - by 60%.


How to avoid excess fat absorption into eggplant when frying?
Eggplant contains only 24 kcal per 100 grams, which is its big advantage in terms of diet and weight loss. The bad thing is that when frying, eggplant acts like a sponge, absorbing huge portions of oil.

There are three ways to avoid this:
- pre-blanch the eggplant pieces, then they will absorb less fat;
- fry eggplant pieces in batter, if this does not contradict the recipe;
- coat the eggplant plates with vegetable oil and fry them in a dry frying pan.

What can you cook from eggplant?

Marinated, fried, stewed, baked, grilled eggplants - there are many recipes with this berry in any kitchen in the world. Perhaps the most popular recipe iseggplant rolls.

You can wrap any filling into the fried plates - a win-win option. BS tried out a few of them this week and all are worthy of praise.



TOP 5 fillings for eggplant rolls:

- cheese, egg, garlic, mayonnaise;
- walnuts, chopped in a blender, with garlic;
- cottage cheese, dill, garlic, flaxseed oil, salt, lemon juice;
- mayonnaise, tomato and raw smoked sausage, cut into strips;
- boiled chicken fillet and mushrooms, cut into strips, mayonnaise.

It's really fast, tasty and convenient.
Well, what can compete with such a snack?

How to choose the right eggplants?

Few people know that eggplant is actually a berry that contains a high level of vitamin complexes that have the most positive effect on the functioning of the body. How to choose quality eggplants when you come to the store, you will learn from this article.

In fact, eggplants contain a large amount of potassium, which is necessary to strengthen the heart muscle, resulting in the heart working smoothly. In addition, they are excellent antioxidants, that is, they are able to remove unnecessary substances from the body. Moreover, people who suffer from high cholesterol levels will use eggplants to remove excess of this compound.

Housewives, as a rule, when coming to the store or to the market, try to choose eggplants that have a bright dark purple tint, almost black. It is strictly forbidden to do this; in fact, such eggplants will be overripe, and a special substance called corned beef will accumulate inside them, and it is poisonous to the body. If the consumer nevertheless bought such eggplants, then they should be placed in cold water for two hours, after which, when used, cut off the peel. Remember, the bitterness in the eggplant is the corned beef!

You need to choose eggplants of so-called technical ripeness, medium size, and the weight of one such berry should be approximately 200 grams. When pressing near the base of the eggplant with your fingers, there should be no imprints left, that is, it should be elastic and instantly return to its original state.

In addition, it is worth paying attention to the stalk, it must be green and must be present.

Often, unscrupulous sellers cut it off to hide the age of the eggplant, so it is better not to buy such fruits.

Another way to check the quality of an eggplant is to cut it at home and leave it in this form for 30 seconds; if it has not changed color, this indicates that the fruit is good. You should not leave it for a long time as the eggplant will darken, this is a natural process. The grains should be evenly spaced and white in color.

When purchasing eggplant, it is recommended to request a quality certificate, which will indicate the last time the product was treated with chemicals. In addition, purchased eggplants should be washed before storing in the refrigerator, this way the surface will be 90% clear of pesticides. Remember, to get rid of nitrates, it’s best to soak vegetables in cold water for several hours!

Thus, if a housewife uses these methods when buying eggplants, she will bring home high-quality and tasty fruits.

Today, growing such an exotic vegetable as eggplant will surprise no one. The range of agricultural markets expands with each new season, presenting new hybrids and varieties for greenhouses, greenhouses and open ground. Experienced gardeners approach the choice of seeds selectively, trying to obtain high yields, long growing seasons and high-quality tasty fruits. For this purpose, breeders are developing new vegetable hybrids - eggplants without bitterness.

Eggplant varieties without bitterness for different climatic regions

New varieties of eggplants developed are, as a rule, low-growing plants with an early ripening period. In addition, hybrids are highly resistant to sudden temperature changes and diseases characteristic of vegetable crops growing in greenhouses and open ground. The fruit pulp is snow-white, dense, while they are practically devoid of seeds and the bitterness characteristic of the vegetable.

The first thing you need to pay attention to when choosing a variety is the ability of the plant to grow and bear fruit in the conditions of your region. Today, farmers conditionally divide the territory of Russia into 3 climatic zones: southern, central Russia and northern. Let’s determine what characteristics eggplants without bitterness should have for a particular zone.

Southern climate zone

The high yield of eggplants in the southern districts allows gardeners not only to use the fruits for food, but also to preserve them. For cultivation, varieties without bitterness with large and long fruits of an even cylindrical shape are selected. The pulp of the fruit should not contain a large number of voids, seeds, and should not have bitterness. Since the most common eggplant dish for canning is sauté, gardeners choose hybrids with thick skins that do not grow more than 6-8 cm in diameter.

Central Russia

For middle latitudes, vegetable varieties with hardiness and resistance to possible spring cold snaps in the air and on the ground are selected. Taking into account the peculiarities of the climate, it is necessary to plant only those plants that have a long fruiting period and resistance to fungal and viral infections. For areas where summers are hot and dry, preference is given to plants adapted to low watering and direct sunlight.

Northern climate zone

To grow eggplants without bitterness in the North, it is better to choose mid- and late-ripening varieties. Seedlings are raised in greenhouses and transferred to open ground when the danger of sudden frost has completely disappeared. In the northern regions, eggplants without bitterness are most often planted in greenhouses, so for this climate zone they prefer to choose self-pollinating hybrids.

Attention! When choosing eggplant seeds without bitterness, be sure to pay attention to the duration of fruiting. The further north your region is, the longer the growing season. Be sure to add 5-7 days to the period indicated on the package.

When buying planting material, pay attention to how hardened the seeds are, the timing of seed pecking and transfer of seedlings to open ground.

The best varieties and hybrids of eggplant without bitterness are presented by manufacturers in a wide range of products. Choose a plant taking into account the climatic conditions of your region and the growing season that is convenient for you. Be sure to take into account the fact that during growth the crop needs regular feeding.

Early varieties and hybrids

Alekseevsky

A non-bitter variety for planting and growing in greenhouses and open areas. The ripening period begins at 90-95 days. The eggplant has a regular elongated shape, the skin is smooth, glossy, and dark purple in color. Has a “friendly” yield. In greenhouses and greenhouses, up to 10 kg of vegetables are harvested per 1 m2. Average weight – 250-300 g. The plant tolerates fungal and viral diseases well, including tobacco mosaic.

Maxik F1

An early hybrid without bitterness with a ripening period of 95 days. It has an elongated cylindrical shape. The skin is shiny, smooth, dark purple in color, the flesh is greenish-white, without bitterness. Average weight – 200-250 g. During the period of full ripening, the fruits can reach sizes of 25-27 cm. The hybrid has a high yield. 10-12 kg of eggplants are harvested from 1 m2.

Behemoth F1

An unusual early hybrid with pear-shaped fruits. The growing season begins 95-100 days after germination. The skin is dark purple, the flesh is greenish-white, medium-dense, without bitterness. During the ripening period, the fruits reach 20-22 cm, weighing 300-330 g. “Behemoth” is ranked by gardeners as one of the most productive hybrids. In greenhouse conditions, up to 16-18 kg of eggplants can be harvested from 1 m2.

Nancy F1

One of the hybrids with an unusually fast ripening period. The bushes begin to bear fruit 2 months after the first seedlings peck. The fruits are small, pear-shaped. The skin is colored dark purple. During the period of full maturity, “Nancy” can grow up to 15 cm with a weight of 100-120 g. When grown in a greenhouse, 1 m2 yields up to 5 kg of fruits without bitterness. In central Russia, “Nancy” is considered the best early variety for canning.

Quartet

An early ripening variety with an amazing striped color. Ripening begins at 100-110 days from germination. The fruits do not exceed 15 cm, the average weight of one eggplant is 100-120 g. Despite its small size, “Quartet” is a fairly productive variety. From 1 m2 of planting area you can harvest up to 12-15 kg of eggplants. The pulp of the fruit is without bitterness, white, loose, with a large number of seeds.

Purple Haze

An insect-pollinated variety of vegetables. Preference is given to growing eggplant in open areas. Adapted to low air and soil temperatures, therefore it has received well-deserved recognition among farmers of the northern climate zone. The ripening period is up to 105 days. Fully ripe fruits have a light, very beautiful color. The length of one eggplant can reach 20 cm, the average weight is 180 g. Up to 12 kg of eggplants without bitterness are harvested from one bush.

Valentina F1

An early ripening hybrid with surprisingly tasty fruits. It is completely free of bitterness, the flesh is dense and white, with a small number of seeds. It takes about 90 days before the first fruits appear. The vegetable has the correct shape, the skin is dark purple, closer to black. The hybrid is classified as long-fruited, since a ripe eggplant can grow up to 30 cm, with an average weight of 270 grams. The "Valentina" hybrid is adapted for cultivation in any climate zone and is resistant to cold weather and common infections.

Purple Wonder F1

This bitter-free hybrid got its name because of its bizarre, slightly curved shape. The ripening period is 90-95 days. The fruits are small, average weight – 150-200 g. The fruit pulp is light green, with a pleasant delicate taste. In greenhouses, up to 5-7 kg of eggplants are harvested from 1 m2.

Mid-season varieties and hybrids

Swan

Designed for greenhouses, open ground and film greenhouses. The plant is resistant to cold weather in the air and soil. Distinctive features are snow-white, dense pulp without bitterness or seeds, and excellent taste. Ripe eggplants reach sizes up to 20 cm, weighing up to 250 g. Fruiting begins on the 105th day after the first shoots. Up to 5 kg of eggplants are harvested from one bush.

Surprise

For those who grow eggplants for canning, this is a real surprise. With a low yield (only 4-5 kg ​​per bush), they are incredibly tasty. The pulp is white, practically devoid of seeds, the taste is delicate, without characteristic bitterness. Fruiting begins on day 105. Ripe fruits reach a length of 15-17 cm. Despite the fact that the weight of one fruit does not exceed 120 grams, “Surprise” does not contain bitterness and is surprisingly tasty when fried and baked.

Ping Pong F1

The name of the hybrid speaks for itself. The fruits are white, round in shape, 5-7 cm in diameter. It takes 110-115 days until mature fruits appear on the bush. The weight of one eggplant is 100-110 g. It is a medium-yielding hybrid without bitterness, but with good feeding it can produce up to 6 kg of fruit per bush.

Comet

The variety belongs to low-growing plants intended for cultivation in greenhouses and open ground. The height of the bush after growth stops is no higher than 80cm. The skin is dense, dark-colored. Eggplants reach a size of 20-22 cm, with an average weight of 200 g. The pulp is white and dense, without bitterness, with a small number of seeds. A distinctive feature of the variety is resistance to late blight and anthracnose. During the harvest period, up to 6-7 kg of fruits can be removed from the bush without bitterness.

Sailor

Mid-season variety, ripening in 105 days. Eggplants are oval, medium-sized. It got its name from the color of its light lilac skin with longitudinal white stripes. The ripe fruit rarely grows to 12 cm, and its weight does not exceed 150 grams. “Matrosik” is a very tasty, non-bitter variety, but has a medium yield. You can remove up to 5-6 kg of fruit from a bush.

Diamond

The variety is recommended for planting and growing in open ground. It is very popular among gardeners in central Russia and the southern regions. The skin is dense, dark purple in color, during the growing season it reaches a length of 18-20 cm, with an average weight of 120-150 g. Ripening occurs 100-110 days after full germination. From 1 m2 they remove up to 8-10 kg of eggplants.

Pelican F1

A variety for lovers of growing exotic vegetables. Eggplants are painted white, the skin is smooth and shiny. The pulp is white, loose, without characteristic bitterness. During the ripening period, eggplants reach a length of 15-17 cm and a weight of 100-120 g. From one square meter you can remove up to 10 kg of delicious eggplants.

Late ripening varieties and hybrids

Bull forehead

An amazingly tasty variety of eggplant without bitterness, with a ripening period of 140-145 days. The plant is classified as stunted. The bush during the period of growth arrest does not exceed 65-70 cm. When ripe, the fruits reach a length of 18-20 cm and a weight of 150-200 grams.

Brunette

Another low-growing type of eggplant without bitterness, with a bush height of up to 70 cm. It tolerates cold weather well, so it can be grown in open areas. The fruits are dark purple. The average weight during ripening is 120-200 g, and the length is 18-20 cm.

Black handsome

The period for full ripening of eggplants is 150 days. Large fruits are dark purple in color. On average, each of them grows to 20-22 cm, and the weight can reach up to 800 grams. The pulp is dense, white, and does not contain seeds. “Black Beauty” has received recognition due to its excellent taste. The plant is intended for planting in open ground and greenhouses.

Conclusion

Growing eggplants without bitterness is no different from ordinary ones. The only thing farmers recommend paying attention to when choosing a variety is its adaptation to climatic conditions. When purchasing hybrids, be sure to check the care conditions and whether the seeds are prepared for growing seedlings.

The nutritional value of eggplant consists of proteins - 1.2 g, fats - 0.1 g, dietary fiber - 2.5 g, organic acids - 0.2 g, starch - 0.9 g, ash - 0.5 g. Carbohydrates occupy 4.5 g, among which 3.6 are mono- and disaccharides. Vitamins: PP, A, B1, B2, B6, B9, C, E. There is a significant amount of mineral compounds (17 names): zinc, calcium, iodine, iron, aluminum, molybdenum, phosphorus. It has a high potassium content - 238 mg.

The calorie content of eggplant ranges from 21 to 24 kcal, depending on the degree of maturity and variety. Corned beef, found in the skin of the fruit, gives a characteristic bitter taste (in large proportions it can cause poisoning), so this vegetable must be peeled and excess juice removed (usually accumulates in overripe specimens).

How does eggplant affect the body?

Eggplants have health benefits and stand out among vegetable crops for their high content of vitamin C and potassium, which has the ability to have a positive effect on the cardiovascular system. Eggplant has a diuretic, bactericidal and hematopoietic effect. The balanced composition of eggplants has a beneficial effect on the condition of the liver, nervous and urinary systems, and digestive processes. With the intake of this vegetable, the intestines and blood vessels are cleansed, and the outflow of excess salts and fluids from the body improves. Symptoms of depression are eliminated and sleep improves.

Regular consumption prevents the formation of stony deposits in the kidneys and gall bladder, the development of atherosclerosis, ischemia, and angina pectoris. When eggplants are included in the diet, the acid-base balance and metabolism are normalized, sugar and cholesterol are reduced, blood composition is improved, and hemoglobin increases.

Eggplant is a negative calorie food and is a healthy food for obesity and diabetes. Low energy value and low glycemic level make it a popular product among people who want to lose weight. It has been found that regular consumption of eggplant reduces cholesterol levels more effectively than taking special medications.

How to choose the right eggplants

When buying fresh eggplants, you need to pay attention to the stalk and surface of the fruit. A high-quality product has a uniform color, shiny and smooth skin, without stains, damage, signs of drying out and dents.

The fruit should be elastic and not too light. The green tail is an indicator of freshness. If the stalk is brown or completely dried out, it is an expired product and it is better not to take it. Another reason for refusing to purchase is a white coating or a weak whitish color. This is a sign of overripeness and bitterness.

Storage methods

High-quality eggplant can be kept in the refrigerator for 3-4 weeks without losing its beneficial properties. Frozen – 4 months. To do this, the vegetable is chopped, salted, washed (to remove bitterness), dried and placed in plastic bags. For longer storage, eggplants can be canned or dried, like mushrooms. They can remain in this form for up to one year.

What does it go with in cooking?

Eggplants do not have a strong aroma; they tend to absorb the odors of other foods. This quality makes it possible to use them in various variations with other products. They are great for the base of a dish or as an ingredient.

Using eggplant, there are a great variety of recipes for hot and cold appetizers, salads, main courses, vegetable stews and side dishes. An unchanging classic of the genre is eggplant caviar. Eggplant goes perfectly with onions, carrots, garlic, vegetable oil, spices and herbs.

Healthy combination of products

Proper use eliminates frying in oil. Eggplant is cooked in a double boiler, slow cooker, grilled, baked in the oven, stewed, fermented and salted without adding oil. This vegetable has few calories and a lot of beneficial properties, which is why it is popular in dietary nutrition.

In dietary dishes, eggplant is useful in combination with dill, garlic, cilantro, sweet peppers, zucchini, tomatoes, pumpkin, parsley, and all types of root vegetables. Olive oil, lemon juice, vinegar or low-calorie sour cream are used to season dishes.

Eggplants are included in many weight loss diets. A mono-diet based on this vegetable falls into the category of tasty and healthy. This method is designed for 14 days and up to 8 kg. During this period, metabolism is activated, fat is blocked and burned.

Eggplant diet recipes

1. Breakfast. Salad with cherry tomatoes, spicy herbs and baked eggplant.
2. Dinner. Vegetarian puree soup made from bell peppers, parsnips, carrots, onions, parsley, dill and eggplant.
3. Dinner. Stewed eggplants with sweet peppers, carrots and garlic.

If you follow this diet, you can eat rye bread, drink fermented milk drinks and low-calorie yoghurts. When using this diet, consultation with your doctor is required.

Contraindications

Eggplants are contraindicated for ulcerative formations in the stomach and duodenum, gastritis, and problems with the pancreas. Overripe fruits contain a lot of corned beef and require special processing, as they can cause negative reactions and lead to poisoning.

Application in medicine and cosmetology

The beneficial properties of eggplant have been used since ancient times. Ancient healers added the dried peel to medicinal preparations, and the fruits were included in food for healing from various diseases.

For medical purposes, it is recommended to eat eggplants for heart disease, to cleanse blood vessels and blood of cholesterol, reduce sugar, and improve digestion. Included in the diet for diabetes, obesity, hypertension, reduced immunity, to improve hematopoiesis, fluid removal, and reduce swelling. To normalize the acid-base balance and improve lipid metabolism. Prescribed for urolithiasis, gout, atherosclerosis, anemia, functional failure of the liver, spleen and kidneys.

In folk medicine, eggplant juice is used as a bactericidal and antiseptic agent for healing wounds, ulcers, treating mucous membranes, and stomatitis. Powder from dried fruits serves as the basis for tincture, which is taken to reduce blood pressure, treat and prevent diseases of the kidneys, endocrine system and liver.

Cosmetologists introduce eggplants into nourishing and firming masks. To relieve irritation, rejuvenate and eliminate fine wrinkles, juice is used in the form of skin lotion. In home cosmetology, juice is an effective means for whitening teeth and removing age spots.