Brussels sprouts. You either love them or hate them. But did you know they are the same species as kale and collard greens?
They make a large portion of the Gemmifera group of the Brassica oleracea species (within the mustard family) which also includes crucifers such cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, and kohlrabi. They look like miniature cabbages because, well, they kind of are miniature cabbages – although they grow a bit differently.
Brussels sprouts are a cool weather crop and best grow in a temperature range of 45–75 °F and can benefit from a frost which often makes the sprouts sweeter.
Instead of one central head, the brussels sprout plant produces a two to four-foot central stem from which the little heads grow in a helical pattern around the stalk. They are normally harvested in a home garden by picking five to fifteen of the buds at a time on each plant which allows the smaller ones to grow to full size. Most varieties can be harvested two to three times in a season producing 2 ½ – 3 ½ pounds of sprouts.
Brussels can be a bit tricky to grow and get a good harvest. But with our advice here at Gardener’s Path, you should be able to produce a nice crop and avoid pest and disease issues by providing your plants with proper growing environment for them to thrive. Get started by reading our in-depth guides below. Happy Gardening!
Are you growing brussels sprouts in your garden and wondering how best to harvest them? There’s nothing better than a homegrown sprout, fresh off the stalk. Learn when to pick them for the sweetest flavor and the different ways to go about it – plus some maintenance tips to ensure you get the best crop. Read more now.
Despite a reputation for being tricky, you can certainly grow Brussels sprouts in your home garden, as long as you follow a few guidelines. Learn how now at Gardener’s Path.