How to Grow Brussels Sprouts: Tiny Cabbages with Big Flavor

Brussels sprouts are a cool-season crop known for their nutty flavor and compact, cabbage-like heads. While they take a bit more time and patience compared to other vegetables, the reward of harvesting your own sprouts is well worth the effort.

As with all crops, your soil, climate, and care methods will influence your success. Use this guide as a flexible foundation and adjust as needed to find what works best in your garden.

Choosing the Right Brussels Sprouts Variety

Brussels sprouts come in different sizes and growing habits, with some varieties maturing earlier than others.

Popular Varieties:

Long Island Improved: A traditional, compact plant that produces flavorful sprouts.
Jade Cross: Known for its early maturity and resistance to disease.

Diablo: Produces large, firm sprouts with a sweet flavor.
Redarling: A unique, red-colored variety with a slightly milder taste.

Tip: Try growing both early and late-maturing varieties to extend your harvest season.

Preparing the Soil

Brussels sprouts thrive in nutrient-rich, well-draining soil that retains moisture without becoming waterlogged.

Basic Soil Guidelines:

Add compost or aged manure to enrich the soil.

Aim for a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.5 to 7.0).
Ensure the soil is loose and well-drained to prevent root rot.

Experiment: Try rotating Brussels sprouts with other crops to maintain soil health and reduce the risk of pests and diseases.

Planting Your Brussels Sprouts

Starting from Seeds:
- Start seeds indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost. Transplant seedlings outdoors when they are 10 to 15 cm (4 to 6 inches) tall and soil temperatures reach at least 7C (45F).
Direct Sowing:
- In cooler climates, seeds can be sown directly outdoors in late spring for a fall harvest.
Spacing and Depth:
- Plant seedlings 60 to 75 cm (24 to 30 inches) apart in rows spaced 75 to 90 cm (30 to 36 inches) apart.

Sunlight Needs:
- Brussels sprouts need full sun–at least 6 to 8 hours per day.

Caring for Your Brussels Sprouts

Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Brussels sprouts need about 2.5 cm (1 inch) of water per week.

Mulching: Apply mulch to retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds.
Fertilizing: Feed with a nitrogen-rich fertilizer every few weeks to promote healthy leaf and sprout growth.

Observation Tip: Remove the lower leaves as the plant grows to encourage energy to focus on sprout development.

Harvesting Your Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts are typically ready to harvest 85 to 110 days after transplanting, depending on the variety.

How to Harvest:

Harvest sprouts from the bottom of the stalk upward when they are firm, 2.5 to 5 cm (1 to 2 inches) in diameter, and have a bright green color.

Twist or snap the sprouts off the stalk, leaving the upper sprouts to continue growing.

Try it and see: A light frost can improve the flavor of Brussels sprouts, making them sweeter and more tender. Experiment with harvesting before and after frost to find your preferred taste.

Storing Brussels Sprouts

Proper storage helps keep Brussels sprouts fresh and flavorful.

How to Store Brussels Sprouts:

Short-Term Storage: Store unwashed sprouts in a perforated plastic bag in the refrigerator for up to 1 to 2 weeks.
Storing on the Stalk: If possible, keep the sprouts attached to the stalk and store them in a cool, humid place to extend freshness.

Freezing: Blanch sprouts for 3 to 5 minutes, cool quickly in ice water, and freeze in airtight containers for long-term storage.

Tip: For the best flavor, use Brussels sprouts within a week of harvesting.

Common Brussels Sprouts Growing Problems

Aphids:
- Small insects that cluster on leaves and stems. Use insecticidal soap or introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs.
Cabbage Loopers and Worms:
- Green caterpillars that chew holes in leaves. Hand-pick pests or use row covers to protect young plants.

Loose or Small Sprouts:
- Caused by warm temperatures or insufficient nutrients. Ensure consistent watering and feeding throughout the growing season.

Final Thoughts: Your Garden, Your Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts may take a bit more time and attention to grow, but the reward of harvesting these mini cabbages is worth the effort. While these guidelines provide a solid foundation, the best results come from observing your plants and adjusting your care based on your conditions.

Happy gardening, and enjoy your fresh, homegrown Brussels sprouts!