Growing Brussels Sprouts: Tips at a Glance
Brussels sprouts belong to the cabbage family; their edible buds look like tiny heads of cabbage growing on stalks. Plant in late summer and harvest after the first frost for the sweetest taste.
- Type Edible vegetable
- Life Span Annual
- USDA Zones 2-10
- Light Sun or some shade
- Water Heavy drinker
- Soil Loose
- Design Tip Add supports
- Companions Fly-repeller herbs
- Days to Maturity 80-100
Brussels Sprouts: A Field Guide
Gone is the groan that meets a plate of Brussels sprouts. With proper cooking technique (roasting, grilling) and tempering companions (bacon, onions, lemons), this winter vegetable has become a favorite.
The key to sweet Brussels sprouts is to allow them to mature and cold weather and to cook them right after harvest. Expect a sweeter flavor after a few light frosts. Try planting herbs such as mint, sage, and rosemary nearby to keep flies at bay. Look for red varieties such as ‘Falstaff’ and ‘Red Delicious’ for variety. To harvest, pluck bigger sprouts from the bottom up.
