Eggplants appeared in our country in the XNUMXth century, although in their homeland, India, they were popular long before our era. These delicious and healthy vegetables quickly gained popularity in our area. Interestingly, the first eggplants were white and yellow. But in the future, experienced breeders managed to bring out not only fruits of various colors (purple, red, green, orange, dark purple, striped), but also various shapes.
Eggplants are very demanding on temperature and light conditions. Therefore, in Our Country, they can grow only in the southern regions. But even here, the breeders tried and brought out varieties suitable for a cold climate.
Eggplants are valued for their beneficial properties. They are deservedly considered a dietary product. Vegetables contain fiber, potassium, calcium, pectin, iron and phosphorus. Thanks to fiber, they help to remove toxins and excess fluid from the body. And potassium promotes the breakdown of cholesterol plaques in the vessels. For this they are loved and appreciated all over the world.
Indeed, not everyone can grow good eggplants. But, if you choose the right variety and listen to the tips for growing it, then everything will definitely work out.
Consider a variety ideal for cold regions – eggplant “Vikar”. We will also learn how to grow them and hear the recommendations of those who have already tried this variety in practice.
Characteristic of the variety
“Vikar” is a cold-resistant variety, easily tolerates temperature changes. Suitable for growing in spring and summer.
Eggplants can be grown outdoors and in greenhouses. It will be better to bear fruit, of course, in greenhouses, from 5 to 7 kg per m2. The variety is early ripe, 100–115 days will pass from seed germination to the appearance of the first fruits.
The mass of eggplant can be about 200 g, length – up to 20 cm. The skin is light purple, matte and smooth. The pulp is light green in color, dense structure. Bitterness is absent. The shape of the fruit is pear-shaped, slightly rounded on top. There are no thorns on the calyx, which makes harvesting much easier.
Eggplant fruits “Vikar” are used in cooking, for conservation and cooking various dishes. Stores well rolled up. Suitable for frying, stewing and baking in the oven. Eggplants can also be frozen. Easily tolerate transportation.
As you can see, this variety has excellent characteristics. The speed of ripening and the yield of these eggplants is impressive. And the taste has not left anyone indifferent.
Cultivation and care
Sowing for seedlings can begin as early as the end of February and until mid-May. Eggplants are slow to sprout, which is why they are planted so early.
- The soil before sowing should be prepared using peat and other fertilizers.
- Place the seeds in the ground 1,5 cm deep, sprinkle with soil and lightly compact.
- Cover the box with cling film to keep moisture out.
- Before germination, the temperature in the room should be at least +25 °C. And when the sprouts appear, you can gradually lower it to +20 ° C, but not less than +18 ° C.
You can start picking seedlings when 1-2 full leaves appear. A week before planting, the plants must be hardened off. If this is not done, the sprouts simply cannot withstand direct sunlight and temperature changes from day to night. The approximate landing time is mid-May, when frosts are no longer terrible.
The distance between seedlings should be 20-30 cm, and between rows – 50-60 cm. The soil after planting should be sprayed with water, as eggplants love moisture very much. Further eggplant care should include regular watering, fertilizing and loosening the soil. It is not necessary to tie this variety, as the bush is low and holds its shape well.
Reviews
To summarize
Eggplants are considered very whimsical heat-loving plants, and not everyone undertakes to grow them. But the Vikar eggplant variety is great for cold climates. It breaks all stereotypes and allows you to grow delicious homemade eggplants where any other variety would not stand.