Growing Brussels Sprouts

Appears like small cabbages, Brussels sprouts is a seasonal vegetable belonging to the cabbage family. Growing Brussels sprouts from seeds is not as perplexing as it seems to be. However, if you are planning to grow this amazing vegetable in your garden, read on for some basic guidelines on how to grow Brussels sprouts in your garden.

Brussels sprouts is a hardy, slow growing vegetable, that was first cultivated in Belgium somewhere in 1200. Named after the capital city of Belgium, Brussels, the vegetable is now cultivated all over Europe. Belonging to the family Brassicaceae and genus Brassica, the plant develops sprouts, small heads resembling miniature cabbages along the axils of each leaf. This seasonal crop is frost resistant and grows best during winters or in slightly frosty weather.

Brussels sprouts require a long growing period and when planted during late spring to early summer, it yields healthy, high quality sprouts as the weather begins to cool. This was just a brief idea on growing Brussels sprouts, now let us have a detailed account on how to plant and care for Brussels sprouts. Read more on gardening and vegetable gardens.

Growing Brussels Sprouts

Planting Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts is tolerant of nearly all soil conditions, except acidic soils. A firm nitrogen rich soil having a pH between 6 - 6.5 is best for growing Brussels sprouts. Before sowing the seeds, dig some organic content in the soil, to retain the soil's moisture retention properties. The most preferable time to sow the seeds is during mid spring to late summer. Hence, sow the seeds in seed pots and after the seedlings are about 6 inches in height and 5 - 6 weeks old, plant them in your garden soil. While planting Brussels sprouts from seeds, ensure that the sprouts are planted approximately 36 inches apart in the soil. Apply fertilizer and water while planting and try maintaining the temperature up to 75 deg F for best results. The sprouts dwell well in sun or partial shade, and since they are top heavy, keep them from planting in areas that have strong winds.

Harvesting Brussels Sprouts

Three months after planting, the sprouts may grow in the leaf axils and will be ready to harvest. Sprouts that are about 2 - 2.5 cm in diameter or those have started developing yellow lower leaves, can be picked. Cut the sprouts off the stem and take out the loose leaves from them. Don't let the sprouts grow too large else they may start cracking and become bitter. You can also pull it, by taking off the leaves underneath the sprouts, and then twisting and pulling the sprouts. If you are planning to harvest in cold seasons, mulch plants with straw or cover with a row cover for protection, later the entire plant can be pulled.

Fertilizers for Brussels Sprouts

Before transplanting or sowing seeds, it is recommended to slightly broadcast fertilizer like 10-10-10 over the area. Once the plant starts having sprouts apply 1 tbsp (15 ml) per plant of 5-10-10 fertilizer, or you can also use one large handful of good compost. Sprinkle around the base, not up against the stem and then water in the plants.

Pest Protection for Brussels Sprouts

Like other cabbage family members (cabbage, kale, cauliflower, and broccoli), Brussels sprouts are also susceptible to some common soil borne fungal and viral diseases like club root caused by aphids and cabbage worms. You can use row covers to deter pests like flea beetles, cabbage worms, and root maggots from damaging the sprouts.

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Since Brussels sprouts have shallow root system, ensure that you don't damage its root while maintaining the soil and weeds. For best yield, apply nitrogen fertilizer after every three weeks during its growing season and water frequently. Well, this was all about growing Brussels sprouts. I hope the information given on growing Brussels sprouts from seeds proves to beneficial to you all.