Troubleshooting
Eggplant / aubergine problems — and how to fix them
Eggplant / aubergine (Solanum melongena) is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Flowers drop without fruit
Too cold (<21°C) or too hot (>35°C); fruit set is temperature-sensitive.
Flea beetles
Pinprick holes in leaves; row cover when young.
Blossom-end rot
Inconsistent watering.
Pale undersized fruit
Under-feeding or root-bound in containers.
Aphids
Common pest; treat with horticultural soap.
Prevent eggplant / aubergine problems before they start
Most eggplant / aubergine issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Eggplant / aubergine problems — FAQ
Why is my eggplant / aubergine flowers drop without fruit?
Too cold (<21°C) or too hot (>35°C); fruit set is temperature-sensitive.
Why is my eggplant / aubergine flea beetles?
Pinprick holes in leaves; row cover when young.
Why is my eggplant / aubergine blossom-end rot?
Inconsistent watering.
Why is my eggplant / aubergine pale undersized fruit?
Under-feeding or root-bound in containers.
Why is my eggplant / aubergine aphids?
Common pest; treat with horticultural soap.