BRUSSEL SPROUT SEEDLINGS HOW TO

Cool temperatures during sprout development are important for compact, quality sprouts. High nitrogen levels result in loose sprouts with internal browning, so do not fertilize after midsummer. Mix ¼ cup complete organic fertilizer into the soil under each transplant. Plant in humus-rich soil amended with composted manure. Transplants should be set out when they have 6-8 true leaves. Sow 3-4 seeds per pot, 1cm (1/2”) deep, under very bright light. Optimal soil temperature for germination: 10-30☌ (50-85☏). Otherwise start the seeds in small pots or transplant beds and transplant into the garden so the plants are in the ground for 45-60 days before the first hard frost. The goal is to harvest mature sprouts after they have been kissed by frost. Seeds can be direct sown any time once the daytime temperature is steadily above 10☌ (50☏).

BRUSSEL SPROUT SEEDLINGS HOW TO

Expect a large harvest from only 4 or 5 plants. Continue reading for some expert advice on how to grow Brussels sprouts from seed. These big top-heavy plants are some of the easiest brassicas to grow.

Keep the soil around plants moist and well-mulched during the heat of summer, to ensure a supply of Brussels sprouts until the holidays.

After frost they become sweet, as the plants convert starches into sugar as a kind of antifreeze. Like broccoli, these Brassicas are full of beta-carotene, vitamin C, and fibre. Fresh Brussels sprouts are a superb fall and winter treat.

Brussel sprout seedlings