Sowing, Growing, + Harvesting Brussels Sprouts – Seeds 'n Such

Brussels sprouts are a type of cruciferous vegetable that are closely related to cabbage, broccoli, and kale. They are small, green, and round in shape, and are typically harvested when they are about the size of a small marble. Brussels sprouts have a unique flavor that is slightly sweet and nutty, and they are a popular addition to many dishes. Brussels sprouts are a nutritious food that are high in vitamins and minerals, including vitamins K and C, and folate. They are also a good source of fiber, which can help with digestion and may reduce the risk of certain diseases such as heart disease and diabetes. Brussels sprouts are relatively easy to grow, and can be planted in the spring or fall in most climates.

Sowing

Start Brussels sprout seeds indoors 12-14 weeks before the last expected frost date in your area. They require a long growing season to develop properly.
Use a seed-starting tray or pots with a good quality seed-starting mix.
Sow Brussels sprout seeds about 1/4 inch deep and 2-3 inches apart.
Keep the soil consistently moist and maintain a temperature of around 70°F (21°C) for germination.
Transplant the seedlings outdoors when they are 4-6 weeks old and the weather is still cool but not freezing.

Growing

Choose a location with full sun or partial shade and well-drained, fertile soil. Brussels sprouts prefer a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.0).
Transplant the Brussels sprout seedlings outdoors with a spacing of 18-24 inches between plants and rows.
Water the plants regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist. Consistent moisture is important for proper sprout formation.
Fertilize with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer when transplanting and again a few weeks later.

Harvesting

Brussels sprouts mature slowly, and the flavor improves after a light frost. Harvest sprouts when they are firm and green, about 1-1.5 inches in diameter, from the bottom of the stalk upwards.
To harvest, twist or cut the sprouts from the plant. They become increasingly bitter if left on the plant for too long, so pick them as needed.
Remove any yellowing or damaged leaves from the plant while harvesting to encourage continued growth.

Storing + Next Steps

Store freshly harvested Brussels sprouts in the refrigerator. Place them in a plastic bag or container and keep them in the crisper drawer. Use them within a week or so for the best quality.
You can also blanch and freeze Brussels sprouts for longer-term storage. Blanching involves briefly boiling the sprouts and then quickly cooling them in ice water before freezing. This method preserves the flavor and texture of the sprouts.
Brussels sprouts can tolerate some cold weather, so they can remain in the garden and be harvested as needed until temperatures drop significantly. In this case, mulch around the plants to protect them from extreme cold.
In the fall, cut back the foliage to about 6 inches above the ground. This will help to prevent the buildup of disease and pests in the garden.
With proper care, Brussels sprouts plants can produce a harvest for several years.

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