Brussels Sprouts in Abbey Wood

Sow seeds indoors in modules or pots around 29th January - 13th February. Use a good seed compost and cover with 1–2 cm of soil. Keep at 15–18 °C for germination, which takes 7-14 days.

Once seedlings have their first true leaves, prick them out into individual pots around 19th February - 26th February. Handle by the leaves to avoid stem damage and plant at the same depth as before.

Gradually acclimatise plants to outdoor conditions over 7-10 days around 12th March - 19th March. Start with a few hours in a sheltered spot and increase exposure each day.

Plant seedlings into their final position around 29th March - 12th April. Space them 60 cm apart in firm, fertile soil. Firm the soil well around each plant to prevent wind-rock.

Immediately after transplanting, cover plants with fine mesh netting to protect against cabbage white butterflies and pigeons. Fit brassica collars around the base of each stem to deter cabbage root fly.

Apply a nitrogen-rich fertiliser every 28 days from 21st December until 19th April. Water it in well to support the heavy leafy growth needed for good sprout formation.

Start harvesting from the bottom of the stalk upwards around 21st December - 24th July. Pick sprouts when they are firm and about the size of a walnut. Frost improves their flavour, so continue harvesting through winter.