Brussels Sprouts in Afon Eitha

Sow seeds indoors in modules or pots around 27th February - 14th March. 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 20th March - 27th March. 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 10th April - 17th April. Start with a few hours in a sheltered spot and increase exposure each day.

Plant seedlings into their final position around 27th April - 11th May. 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 20th November until 18th May. 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 20th November - 22nd August. Pick sprouts when they are firm and about the size of a walnut. Frost improves their flavour, so continue harvesting through winter.