About Brussels Sprouts

Brussels Sprouts you either like them or hate them, most people hate them. But have you tried eating home grown ones? They taste a lot nicer than the shop bought ones. So why not give them a go and try growing some. Here on this page we help you by sharing tips and advice on how to grow your own Brussels Sprouts.

Recommended varieties

There are many different varieties of Brussels Sprouts which we will list on our website but the more common favorite Brussel Sprouts are Revenge AGM which produce a great number of Sprouts. Red Delicious – these are purple sprouts, try growing these and tasting them you may like these ones.

Choosing the best spot to grow Brussels Sprouts

Brussels Sprouts are best grown in a spot where the wind cannot blow them over as they become top heavy. You are best staking them up to play safe. You can use small stakes to do this. Make sure the area you choose is a sunny spot.

You can prepare the soil in Autumn by digging in organic matter and compost. Try not to dig over the ground before planting.

Sowing Brussels Sprout

When sowing Brussels Sprout seeds, you can either plant them in seed trays or straight in the ground. The best option is in seed trays so that you can get them strong before planting outside.

The seeds usually germinate between 7-14 days. When they are big enough to handle you can pot them up into individual pots and grow them on till they are big enough to go outside.

Growing Brussels Sprout

When they are big enough to be planted outdoors make sure you harden them off for a couple of weeks so that you are not shocking them when you put them outdoors.

When marking out how far to plant them apart you need to put them around 80cm apart. This is so they have the space to grow. It also improves air circulation around the plants.

When planting out make sure the soil is level with the first set of leaves.

Looking after your Brussels Sprout

To look after your Brussels Sprouts, make sure that you water them regularly while they are taking shape and establishing. Keep the ground around them hoed to stop any weeds from growing round them.

Harvesting Brussels Sprout

Brussels Sprouts are usually ready around Autumn. Many gardeners wait until the first frost though before picking them. This makes the sprouts taste sweeter. Only pick the firm sprouts these should be around the size of a walnut. Work your way up from the bottom to the top. Once all the sprouts have been picked you can harvest the top of the plant and cook it like cabbage.

Common Problems with Brussels Sprout

Protect Brussels Sprouts from pigeons who like to eat the tops of the plants as they are growing. Cover them with a net to prevent this.