THE NUTS & BOLTS

POSITION Full sun

WHAT TO PLANT? Either seeds or seedlings are fine

WHEN TO PLANT? Aug–Dec in arid and warm temperate areas, Oct–Dec in cold temperate regions, all year in the subtropics and May–Jul in the tropics.

SOIL PREP Add aged manure or compost and organic fertiliser

WATER NEEDS High

FOOD Apply organic fertiliser when plants reach 60cm high and potash when flowering starts

GROWING TIPS Mound soil to improve drainage. Space plants 60–80cm apart; bury stem for root development. Support with trellis or sturdy stakes. Remove suckers and pinch out side shoots at leaf joints to avoid cluttered growth

PESTS & DISEASES Cover fruit trusses with pest-exclusion bags to control caterpillars and fruit fly. Remove diseased leaves regularly and dispose of in the rubbish bin

WHEN TO PICK Either when ripe or just as they start to colour, then ripen in a warm, shaded spot