How Do You Plant Brussels Sprouts?

Growing Brussels Sprouts

Choosing the Right Variety

First off, let's talk about varieties. There are early, mid-season, and late-season types. My personal favorite is the 'Long Island Improved'. It produces consistently and stands up to colder temperatures.

Every gardener has their preference, but experimenting with different types can be rewarding.

When to Plant

Timing is crucial. Brussels sprouts require a long growing season—about 90 to 100 days. They thrive in cool weather.

I usually start seeds indoors about 4-6 weeks before the last frost. This way, the seedlings are strong and healthy by the time they go in the ground.

Soil Preparation

These plants are heavy feeders. They need a well-draining soil rich in organic matter. I recommend adding compost or aged manure to your garden bed before planting.

A soil pH of 6.5-7.5 is ideal. I always do a soil test to get it just right. It’s worth the extra effort.

Transplanting

Once your seedlings have grown to about 4-6 inches tall and the risk of frost has passed, it’s time to transplant them outdoors.

Plant them about 18-24 inches apart. Rows should be 30 inches apart to allow for good air circulation.

Watering and Fertilizing

Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. I use drip irrigation to give them a steady supply of water without drenching the foliage.

Brussels sprouts are heavy feeders. I use a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks to keep them thriving.

Did you know? Proper watering can reduce the risk of clubroot disease.

Support and Maintenance

These plants can get quite tall, sometimes up to 3 feet. I often stake them to prevent them from toppling over.

Mulching around the plants helps retain moisture and keeps weeds at bay. It also helps in maintaining a consistent soil temperature.

Pest Control

Aphids, cabbage worms, and slugs are common pests. I handpick them early in the morning. Neem oil spray works wonders too.

Companion planting with marigolds or nasturtiums can also deter pests. I find this method both effective and aesthetically pleasing.

Harvesting

Brussels sprouts are ready to harvest when the sprouts are firm and about 1-2 inches in diameter. Start from the bottom of the plant and work your way up.

After the first frost, the sprouts taste even better. The cold enhances their sweetness. Trust me, it’s worth the wait.

Storage

Once harvested, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, blanch and freeze them.

I’ve also pickled them. They make a terrific addition to salads and charcuterie boards.

Growing Brussels sprouts may take some patience, but their flavor is unbeatable. Fresh from the garden always trumps store-bought.

The seeds germinate in five to eight days at optimal temperatures of 75 to 77 F (23 – 25 C). They perform the best in full sunlight with at least 6 hours of direct sun most of the days. Too much shade slows down the maturity period of the plants and also produces lower harvest. Put the seedling tray in a spot that receives lots of direct sunlight for a higher success rate. It is a cool-weather plant and sprouts from the seed when the soil temperatures are between 45 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. If the seeds have germinated successfully, do not pull out the little seedlings as it damages the roots. Keep the germinated seeds properly watered at all times as it is a sensitive stage and the seedlings benefit from a moist soil. If the seeds were sown indoors, they will need 7 to 10 days to get used to outdoor temperature conditions. Use a cloche or mini greenhouse to protect the seedlings from sudden changes in temperatues and gradually remove the cloche for longer periods.