How to Grow Brussel Sprouts From Seeds

Brussels sprouts are a cool season vegetable.

Brussels sprouts are related to the cabbage family. They like cool weather and take a long time, usually around 90 days, in which to fully mature, according to the University of Illinois Extension on Vegetable Gardening. Brussels sprouts need full sun, rich well-drained soil and lots of humidity in order to grow well. Starting Brussels sprouts from seed is possible, but you should start the seed indoors and not in the garden bed to ensure the best start for your plants.

Things You'll Need

• Potting soil
• Seed trays
• Compost
• Spade
• 13-13-13 fertilizer

Instructions

1. Start the Brussels sprout seeds indoors four to five weeks before you want to plant them outside. Fill the seed trays with potting soil and plant the Brussels sprout seeds in the trays, one or two seeds per tray. Plant the seeds ½ to ¼ inch deep. Keep the seed trays moist. Place the seed trays under grow lights or near a brightly lit window.

2. Choose a location for the Brussels sprouts in your garden. The area should be in full sun with well-drained soil. Work 6 to 8 inches of compost into the soil to a depth of 10 inches. Transplant the Brussels sprouts to the garden about 90 to 100 days before the first frost date in your area, usually early to mid-summer. Dig holes for the transplants as deep as the root balls. Space the holes 24 to 36 inches apart. Place the transplants into the holes and fill the holes with soil.

3. Water the Brussels sprouts with 1 to 1 ½ inches of water every week if there is no rainfall.

4. Fertilize the Brussels sprouts when they are 12 inches tall with 13-13-13 fertilizer. Add 1 tbsp. of fertilizer per plant. Water the plants well after applying the fertilizer.

5. Harvest the Brussels sprouts when the buds are about 1 inch in diameter and firm.

References

• University of Illinois: Watch your Garden Grow: Brussels Sprouts
• Purdue University: Brussels Sprouts
• North Carolina State University: Brussels Sprouts