Brussel Sprouts Growing Guide

History of Brussel Sprouts

Brussel Sprouts (Brassica oleracea var. gemmifera) emerged in the Mediterranean but were refined in Belgium by the 13th century, named after Brussels. They spread across Europe by the 16th century and reached North America in the 1800s, valued for their nutty flavor and nutrition.

Growing Brussel Sprouts from Seed

Materials Needed: Brussel sprout seeds, potting mix, 4-inch pots, watering can.
Germination Info: 5-10 days at 65-75°F (18-24°C), no stratification, 85% success rate.

Harvest Seeds: Use fresh seeds.
Prepare: Fill pots with moist potting mix.
Plant Seeds: Sow ½ inch deep, 2-3 seeds per pot.
Provide Conditions: Keep cool (65-75°F), moist, in full sun.
Monitor Growth: Sprouts in 5-10 days; thin to one at 2 inches.
Transplant: Move to garden after 4-6 weeks, spacing 24 inches apart.

Suggestions: Start indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost; harvest after first frost for sweeter flavor.

Container Gardening Tips

Brussel sprouts can grow in large containers.

Container Size: 15-20 gallon pots with drainage.
Soil Mix: Rich mix with compost (2:1).
Location: Full sun (6-8 hours).
Watering: Every 2-3 days, keep moist.
Pruning: Remove lower leaves to focus energy on buds.

In-Ground Gardening

Space Needed: 24-30 inches apart, rows 3 ft apart.
Soil Types: Well-drained loam; test with jar method.
Watering: 1-2 inches weekly.
Sun Requirements: Full sun (6-8 hours).

Plant Profile Chart

Common Name	Botanical Name	Family	Plant Type	Size	Sun Exposure	Soil Type	Soil pH	Bloom Time	Hardiness Zone	Native Area	Toxicity
Brussel Sprouts	Brassica oleracea var. gemmifera	Brassicaceae	Annual Vegetable	2-4 ft tall	Full Sun	Loamy	6.0-7.0	Fall	2-10 (annual)	Mediterranean	Non-Toxic

Diseases and Pests

Diseases: - Clubroot (Plasmodiophora brassicae): Root swelling.
Pests: - Aphids: Sap-sucking pests.
Prevention: Rotate crops, use row covers.
Remedies: Apply lime, use insecticidal soap.