Part of the cabbage family, Brussels sprouts look like mini cabbage heads.
They form on thick stems, along with broad leaves.
These leaves are also edible and prepared like other hardy greens.
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They are typically planted in the summer for afall to winter harvest.
In general, plant seeds approximately four months prior to your area’s projected first fall frost date.
Selecting a Planting Site
Pick a spot that gets plenty of sun and has sharp soil drainage.
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Araised garden bedis ideal because it better withstands temperature fluctuations.
Container growth is also an option.
Keep Brussels sprouts away from strawberry plants, as strawberries inhibit their growth.
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Spacing, Depth, and Support
Plant seeds around a half inch deep and 3 inches apart.
Too much shade will slow the sprouts' maturity.
Soil
Brussels sprouts like a loamy, well-drained soil that’s rich inorganic matter.
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It’s ideal to mix a thick layer of compost into the soil prior to planting.
Thesoil pHshould hover around neutral.
Water
Keep the sprouts' soil moist but not soggy.
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Around 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week should be sufficient.
Inconsistent watering results in poor sprout development.
A layer of mulch helps to retain soil moisture and keep the roots cool.
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Temperature and Humidity
Brussels sprouts do best when daytime temperatures do not exceed 70F.
The plants thrive in cool, wet weather and tolerate a light frost, which improves their taste.
Humidity typically isn’t an issue as long as there’s good airflow around the plants.
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Reapply throughout the growing season, following label instructions.
Types of Brussels Sprouts
There are many different varieties of Brussels sprouts.
They even have a somewhat similar taste, though cabbage tends to be milder.
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Each sprout grows in the leaf axil, or joint.
Sprouts begin maturing from the bottom of the plant upward.
Start harvesting when the lower sprouts reach about an inch in diameter.
Pick them before they get too large and start cracking and turning bitter.
Each plant yields approximately a quart of sprouts.
Pulling off the sprouts is easier if you remove the leaf below each sprout first.
Then, twist and pull the sprout.
Some people prefer to use pruners instead.
After harvesting, a second crop of sprouts might begin to grow at the base of the stem.
These won’t be as tight as the first crop, but they are still edible.
you’re able to store sprouts in the refrigerator for around five days.
Dont wash them until right before you plan to use them.
It will allow you to control the sunlight, water, and soil for your plant.
Opt for a container thats at least a foot wide and deep.
It should have ample drainage holes.
Pruning
Brussels sprouts generally dont require pruning.
However, you should promptly remove any damaged or diseased portions before they weaken the entire plant.
Removing yellowed leaves allows the plant to put its effort into sprout production.
However, it is possible to regrow Brussels sprouts fromscraps.
The best time to start this process is in the early summer for planting outdoors.
To start plants in containers, gently press the seeds into a moist seed-starting mix.
Expect germination within about three weeks.
Potting and Repotting Brussels Sprouts
For container growth, use a loose organic vegetable potting mix.
Mix some compost into the soil to improve its drainage and nutrient content.
Overwintering
Because Brussels sprouts generally are grown as an annual, no overwintering will be necessary.
Just ensure to plant early enough for your area to be able to harvest before frigid temperatures set in.
The most common pests are the cabbage looper, cabbageworm, cabbageroot maggot, and aphid.
To protect taller plants, create a low tunnel using hoops covered with row covers.
you’re able to find corrosion-resistant galvanized steel wire hoops at garden supply stores.
Adequate air circulation around the plants helps to prevent fungal issues.
If plants become diseased, its usually best to destroy them.
Some varieties have been bred to have slightly shorter growing seasons.
Brussels sprouts are biennials, meaning they complete their life cycle in two growing seasons.
However, most gardeners treat them as annuals and start with a fresh plant each year.
How to Grow Brussels Sprouts in Your Garden.
