Growli

Troubleshooting

'Fairy Tale' Aubergine problems — and how to fix them

'Fairy Tale' Aubergine (Solanum melongena 'Fairy Tale') 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.

Flower drop in cold

Chilly nights or drought abort flowers; keep plants warm, sheltered and evenly watered, especially in pots that swing between wet and dry.

Container drying out

Compact plants in small pots wilt fast and drop fruit; pot up generously and check moisture daily in summer heat.

Red spider mite

Mottling and webbing under glass in hot, dry air; raise humidity, improve airflow, and use predatory mites at the first sign.

Aphids and whitefly

Sap-suckers on shoot tips spread virus and sooty mould; dislodge with water, encourage predators, or treat with insecticidal soap.

Prevent 'fairy tale' aubergine problems before they start

Most 'fairy tale' aubergine issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:

Looking for 'fairy tale' aubergine in general rather than its problems? Read the full 'fairy tale' aubergine care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.

'Fairy Tale' Aubergine problems — FAQ

Why is my 'fairy tale' aubergine flower drop in cold?

Chilly nights or drought abort flowers; keep plants warm, sheltered and evenly watered, especially in pots that swing between wet and dry.

Why is my 'fairy tale' aubergine container drying out?

Compact plants in small pots wilt fast and drop fruit; pot up generously and check moisture daily in summer heat.

Why is my 'fairy tale' aubergine red spider mite?

Mottling and webbing under glass in hot, dry air; raise humidity, improve airflow, and use predatory mites at the first sign.

Why is my 'fairy tale' aubergine aphids and whitefly?

Sap-suckers on shoot tips spread virus and sooty mould; dislodge with water, encourage predators, or treat with insecticidal soap.