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Brussels Sprouts in Bristol

Brassica oleracea (Gemmifera Group)

Brussels Sprouts
Vegetable Active in July

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.

Height
90cm
Sunlight
Full Sun
Water
Moderate Water
Add to garden

Growing Guide

Step-by-step instructions for growing Brussels Sprouts

Planting Calendar

Seed IndoorLater
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
TransplantLater
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
FertiliseNow
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
HarvestLater
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
MaintenanceLater
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D

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

    21 Mar – 5 Apr

    Sow seeds indoors in modules around 21st March - 5th April for a Christmas harvest. Cover with of compost and keep at until germination.

  2. Prick Out Seedlings

    11 Apr – 18 Apr

    Prick out seedlings into individual pots once they have true leaves, around 11th April - 18th April. Handle carefully to avoid damaging the stems.

  3. Harden Off Plants

    2 May – 9 May

    Harden off plants over 7-10 days around 2nd May - 9th May to prepare them for outdoor conditions.

  4. Transplant Outdoors

    4 May – 18 May

    Transplant seedlings to their final position around 4th May - 18th May. Space them apart and firm the soil well around each plant.

  5. Install Pest Protection

    11 May – 18 May

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

  6. Feed Plants

    25 May – 24 Nov
    every 4 weeks

    Apply a nitrogen-rich fertiliser every 28 days from 25th May until 24th November to support growth through the season.

  7. Harvest for Christmas

    24 Nov – 23 Jan

    Harvest sprouts from the bottom of the stalk upwards around 24th November - 23rd January. Pick them when firm and walnut-sized; frost sweetens the flavour, making them perfect for festive meals.

Companion Plants

Tap a plant to see why it works (or doesn't) with Brussels Sprouts.

Good companions

Plants to avoid

Why companion planting matters

Companion planting can deter pests, improve pollination, and make better use of space. Some plants confuse pests or attract beneficial insects; others improve soil or offer shade to neighbours that need it.

Also in nearby towns

See how Brussels Sprouts timing shifts in other towns with different frost dates.