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Vegetable
Brussels Sprouts

Brussels Sprouts in Birmingham

Brassica oleracea (Gemmifera Group)

Brussels sprouts are a hardy winter brassica (cabbage family) that form sturdy, leafy stems often around 60–90cm tall. They produce edible mini-cabbage buds along the stem from autumn through winter. Thanks to their cold tolerance, sprouts remain productive into late winter, and frost actually improves their sweetness.

Height90cm
SunlightFull Sun
WaterModerate Water

Growing Guide

Step-by-step instructions for growing Brussels Sprouts

Planting Calendar

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Growing Guide for

Change the guide to see different planting timelines and tips.

Time your sowing and transplanting to ensure Brussels sprouts are ready for picking over the festive period.

1
Sow Seeds Indoors

15 Mar - 30 Mar

Sow seeds indoors in modules around 15th March - 30th March for a Christmas harvest. Cover with of compost and keep at until germination.

2
Prick Out Seedlings

5 Apr - 12 Apr

Prick out seedlings into individual pots once they have true leaves, around 5th April - 12th April. Handle carefully to avoid damaging the stems.

3
Harden Off Plants

26 Apr - 3 May

Harden off plants over 7-10 days around 26th April - 3rd May to prepare them for outdoor conditions.

4
Transplant Outdoors

28 Apr - 12 May

Transplant seedlings to their final position around 28th April - 12th May. Space them apart and firm the soil well around each plant.

5
Install Pest Protection

5 May - 12 May

Cover plants with fine netting and fit brassica collars immediately after transplanting to protect against common pests.

6
Feed Plants

6 Nov - 19 May
every 4 weeks

Apply a nitrogen-rich fertiliser every 28 days from 6th November until 19th May to support growth through the season.

7
Harvest for Christmas

6 Nov - 5 Jan

Harvest sprouts from the bottom of the stalk upwards around 6th November - 5th January. Pick them when firm and walnut-sized; frost sweetens the flavour, making them perfect for festive meals.