Brussels sprouts are a member of the cabbage family, and they’re delicious when cooked correctly. If you’re a fan of healthy eating and want to grow your organic vegetables, then Brussels sprouts should be on your list.
Growing Brussels sprouts can be tricky as they are a cool-season crop with a long growing season. However, with the right knowledge and techniques, you can have a successful harvest of this delicious vegetable. In this article, we’ll go over everything you need to know to grow Brussels sprouts successfully, from choosing the right soil to harvesting them at the right time.
Choosing the Right Soil for Growing Brussels Sprouts
The success of growing Brussels sprouts depends largely on the soil you use. Brussels sprouts need an acidic and nutrient-rich soil. Before planting, test your soil to determine its pH level. The pH level should be between 6.0 to 6.5. If the pH level is higher than 6.5, then add sulphur or an acidifying agent to lower it.
Brussels sprouts require a lot of nitrogen, so incorporate organic matter such as compost, well-rotted manure, or bone meal into the soil before planting. These materials will improve soil texture and add essential nutrients to the soil.
Planting Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts can be grown from seeds or seedlings. It’s recommended to start seeds indoors six to eight weeks before the last frost. After the last frost, transplant them into the garden. You can also plant seedlings directly into the garden, but they should be planted after the last frost.
The ideal planting distance between Brussels sprouts seedlings is 18-24 inches. Each plant requires a considerable amount of space to grow and develop. If you plan to grow more than one row of sprouts, leave a distance of three feet between each row.
The plants require full sun for best growth. It takes around 90 to 100 days for Brussels sprouts to mature, so make sure to account for this time when planting in your garden.
Caring for Brussels Sprouts Plants
Once the Brussels sprouts plants are in the ground, they require routine care. They need 1-1.5 inches of water each week. Make sure they receive a consistent amount of water throughout their growing season.
To keep the soil moist and reduce weeds growth, mulch your Brussels sprouts plants. Use a thick layer of straw, leaves, or grass clippings as a mulch.
Brussels sprouts require a lot of nitrogen to produce leaves and sprouts. So, add nitrogen-rich fertilizers every few weeks to keep them healthy and robust.
Harvesting Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts take a long time to grow; they mature in 90-100 days. Be patient as the plant reaches maturity and starts bearing brussels sprouts.
Harvest the small sprouts from the base of the stalk first, starting with the lowest ones and working your way up. The sprouts should be firm, green, and around 1-2 inches in diameter. If you harvest all the sprouts at once, they may become bitter and tough.
It’s recommended to harvest Brussels sprouts after the first frost, as this enhances the flavor and sweetens them up. If there’s no frost, you can still harvest them when they’re ready.
FAQs about Growing Brussels Sprouts
1. How long does it take to grow Brussels sprouts?
It takes 90-100 days for Brussels sprouts to mature.
2. When should you plant Brussels sprouts?
Brussels sprouts should be planted in the late spring or early summer, depending on your location.
3. What’s the ideal soil pH level for growing Brussels sprouts?
The ideal soil pH level for growing Brussels sprouts is between 6.0 to 6.5.
4. Can you grow Brussels sprouts in containers?
Yes, you can grow Brussels sprouts in containers provided that the container is at least 18 inches deep.
5. How do you keep pests away from your Brussels sprouts plants?
To keep pests away, you can use row covers, insecticidal soap, or neem oil.
Concluding Thoughts on Growing Brussels Sprouts
Growing Brussels sprouts requires some effort in the beginning, but the results are worth it. These tiny cabbages are not just delicious and nutritious, but they’re easy to store and cook.
To grow Brussels sprouts successfully, you’ll need to choose the right soil, plant at the right time, provide routine care, and harvest at the right time. With these tips, you’re well on your way to having a bountiful harvest of delicious Brussels sprouts!
