Catskill Brussel Sprouts Seed

Outdoor Sowing (Directly in the Garden)

• Timing: Sow Brussels sprouts seeds outdoors in early spring, 4-6 weeks before the last frost date, or in mid to late summer for a fall harvest. Brussels sprouts thrive in cool weather and perform best when grown in fall.
• Location: Choose a sunny spot with well-draining, fertile soil. Brussels sprouts can tolerate partial shade but grow best in full sun.
• Soil Preparation: Loosen the soil to a depth of 12 inches and incorporate compost or well-rotted manure to improve fertility and drainage. Brussels sprouts grow best in slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH of 6.5-7.5.
• Planting Seeds:
  • Sow seeds 1/2 inch deep and 2 inches apart in rows.
  • Space rows 18-24 inches apart to allow for proper airflow and ease of harvesting.
• Thinning: Thin seedlings to 18-24 inches apart once they are about 2-3 inches tall to allow plants to grow to their full size.
• Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply and regularly, especially during dry periods, to encourage healthy growth.

Indoor Sowing (Starting Seeds Indoors)

• Timing: Start Brussels sprouts seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost date for a spring crop, or in late spring for a fall harvest.
• Containers: Use seed trays or small pots with good drainage, filled with a light, well-draining seed-starting mix.
• Planting:
  • Sow seeds 1/2 inch deep, placing 1-2 seeds per cell or pot.
  • Cover lightly with soil and water gently.
• Germination:
  • Maintain a temperature of 65-75°F for optimal germination.
  • Expect seedlings to emerge within 5-10 days.
• Transplanting: Transplant seedlings outdoors when soil temperatures are consistently above 50°F and plants have 4-5 true leaves. Space plants 18-24 inches apart in rows.

General Care Tips for Brussels Sprouts

• Sunlight: Provide full sun for best growth. Brussels sprouts can tolerate partial shade but may take longer to mature.
• Watering: Water consistently to keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy. Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
• Fertilizing: Brussels sprouts are heavy feeders. Enrich the soil with compost before planting and side-dress with a balanced fertilizer every 3-4 weeks during the growing season.
• Weeding: Keep the area weed-free to reduce competition for nutrients and moisture. Be careful not to disturb Brussels sprouts' shallow roots when weeding.
• Supporting Plants: Tall Brussels sprouts plants may need staking to prevent them from toppling over, especially in windy conditions.
• Harvesting: Harvest Brussels sprouts when they are firm, green, and 1-2 inches in diameter. Begin picking from the bottom of the plant, moving upward as sprouts mature. Remove yellowing leaves to encourage continued growth.
• Frost Tolerance: Brussels sprouts taste sweeter after a light frost. They can remain in the ground and be harvested well into winter in milder climates.