3 plants will keep a family of four in aubergines from July until late autumn. It is early and prolifically sets huge fruit up to 680g (1½lb). Pick regularly or plants will need staking to support weight of fruit.

Sow seed 8-10 weeks before the last expected frost 6mm (¼in) deep in a moist seed compost. Germination takes 8-21 days at 23-26C (73-79F).

Transplant seedlings carefully while quite small into 7.5cm (3in) pots and grow on at 18-21C (65-70F). Harden off and plant out when all risk of frost is gone and the soil is warm. Plant 90cm (3ft) apart in rows 90-120cm (3-4ft) apart.

Stake as you would for tomatoes and water regularly. Black plastic mulch is useful helping to warm the soil, keep down weeds and save moisture. Liquid feed when fruiting starts. Harvest while fruits still shiny and young. (75 days to harvest).