Brussels Sprouts Growing Guide: Planting, Care, and Harvesting Tips

Brussels sprouts are a cool-season vegetable known for their small, cabbage-like heads. They are a rich source of vitamins and fiber, making them a nutritious addition to your garden. Follow this guide to grow healthy and productive Brussels sprouts from seed to harvest.

Click here to access the complete Brussels Sprout Growing Guide (PDF) for detailed information on soil preparation, planting, and long-term care.

Types of Brussels Sprouts

• Early Season: Spring planted, harvested from September to November (155–175 days). Less cold-hardy.
• Mid-Season: Spring planted, harvested from November to December (175–200 days). Moderate cold tolerance.
• Late Season: Spring planted, harvested from December to March (200–250 days). Best cold tolerance.

Best Growing Conditions for Brussels Sprouts

Soil and Temperature:

• Soil pH: 6.0–7.5 with well-drained, organic-rich soil.
• Germination Temperature: Optimal at 80°F, tolerates 50–100°F.
• Air Temperature: Grows best at 60–65°F.
• Days to Emergence: 5–14 days, depending on variety and conditions.

Planting and Spacing:

• Seed Longevity: Up to 3 years with proper storage.
• Yield: About 30 sprouts per 4-foot stalk.
• Spacing: Sow seeds 3–4 inches apart, thin to 18–24 inches apart in rows spaced 30 inches apart.

Watering and Mulching:

• Consistent, moderate to high watering. Use mulch to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
• Drip irrigation is recommended to prevent disease.

Fertilization:

• Add organic amendments before transplanting.
• Feed monthly with a balanced organic fertilizer.
• Avoid deep cultivation due to shallow roots; top dress and water in fertilizers.

Companion Planting for Brussels Sprouts

• Good Companions: Nasturtiums (repel harmful insects).
• Avoid Planting Near: Tomatoes (can stunt growth).

How to Plant and Grow Brussels Sprouts

Sowing and Transplanting:

• Indoors: Sow seeds in a moist soilless mix (e.g., Quickroot) from late May to June. Plant seeds ¼ inch deep and provide sufficient light with grow lamps or a sunny window.
• Feeding Seedlings: Once true leaves appear, feed seedlings with half-dilution liquid fish and liquid kelp twice a week.
• Transplanting: Harden off seedlings before planting outdoors. Plant seedlings at the same soil depth as they were in their containers. Space 18 inches apart.
• Use Agribon AG15 row covers to protect young plants from pests.

Caring for Plants:

• Keep soil consistently moist using mulch.
• Provide balanced monthly feedings and keep the area well-weeded.
• Pinch off the top growing tip once lower sprouts reach 1 inch to encourage uniform growth.

Common Pests and Diseases Affecting Brussels Sprouts

Pests:

• Cabbage Aphids: Gray-green clusters under leaves. Control with strong water sprays, beneficial insects, or organic insecticides.
• Flea Beetles: Tiny holes in leaves. Use row covers and sticky traps.
• Cabbage Worms: Chew leaves. Hand-pick and use organic insecticides.
• Cabbage Root Maggots: Larvae tunnel into roots, causing wilting. Use row covers and avoid over-fertilization with manure.
• Diamondback Moths: Larvae feed on leaf undersides. Hand-pick or use organic sprays.

Diseases:

• Clubroot: Causes root swelling and yellowing. Rotate crops and raise soil pH to 7.2 with lime.
• Black Rot: Yellow blotches on leaves. Avoid overhead watering and remove infected plants.
• Downy Mildew: White or gray fuzz under leaves. Improve air circulation and treat with organic fungicides.
• Alternaria Leaf Spot: Brown lesions on leaves. Use organic fungicides and avoid overhead watering.

Harvesting Brussels Sprouts

• When to Harvest: Wait until after a light frost for the best flavor.
• How to Harvest: Pick sprouts from the bottom upward as they mature, or remove the entire stalk.
• Storage: Store whole stalks in a root cellar or pick individual sprouts and refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.

Common Growing Questions Answered

Why are my sprouts bitter?

• Both overripe and underripe sprouts develop bitterness. Harvest after early frosts but before heads crack or yellow.

Why are my plants short or stunted?

• Likely caused by starting transplants too early or using small containers that lead to root binding.

How do I prevent plants from falling over?

• Plant in heavy, clay-rich soil or use secure stakes to prevent tall plants from tipping over in the wind.

Can I eat the leaves of Brussels sprout plants?

• Yes! The leaves are edible and can be steamed, sautéed, or added to soups.

Organic Pest Control Using IPM

• Crop Rotation: Avoid planting brassicas in the same area for three years.
• Row Covers: Use Agribon AG15 covers early to protect plants from pests.
• Sanitation: Remove plant debris promptly after harvest to reduce overwintering pests.

Why Grow Brussels Sprouts?

• Cold-Hardy: Ideal for fall and winter harvests.
• Nutrient-Rich: High in vitamins C and K, plus fiber.
• Long Shelf-Life: Stores well in root cellars or refrigeration.
• Edible Leaves: Adds variety to your kitchen beyond just sprouts.