Brussel Sprouts
KEY INFORMATION
Height: to 75cm
Spread: to 40cm
Hardy annual
Full sun Germination: 5 - 8 days
Harvest: From 16 weeks
VARIETIES AVAILABLE FROM COLLIE FLOWERS
SOWING & GROWING SCHEDULE
Sow Indoors: February to April
Sow Outdoors: March to April
Plant Out: May to June
Harvest: October to February
Growing Guide
Sow Brussels Sprout seed indoors from February in 7.5cm pots or trays of free-draining, sowing compost and cover with a thin layer of vermiculite. Place in a propagator or seal inside a plastic bag until germination. Once germinated, grow on in cooler conditions until all risk of frost has passed and plants are large enough to be transplanted. They may require potting on prior to being planted out.
Direct sow outdoors from March into a well prepared seedbed, for transplanting to their final positions later on. Sow at a depth of 13mm and distance of 30cm between rows.
Acclimatise to outdoor conditions before planting outdoors, 60cm apart, in firm, rich fertile, well drained soil. Cover with protective netting or fleece to prevent attack from birds and insects.
TOP TIPS
Flavour is improved once the sprouts have been frosted. Start picking the lowest sprouts first, when they are the size of a walnut, firm and still tightly closed.