Brussels Sprouts in Bristol
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.
Growing Guide
Step-by-step instructions for growing Brussels Sprouts
Planting Calendar
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Time your sowing and transplanting to ensure Brussels sprouts are ready for picking over the festive period.
1 Sow Seeds Indoors
Sow seeds indoors in modules around 13th February - 28th February for a Christmas harvest. Cover with of compost and keep at until germination.
2 Prick Out Seedlings
Prick out seedlings into individual pots once they have true leaves, around 6th March - 13th March. Handle carefully to avoid damaging the stems.
3 Harden Off Plants
Harden off plants over 7-10 days around 27th March - 3rd April to prepare them for outdoor conditions.
4 Transplant Outdoors
Transplant seedlings to their final position around 29th March - 12th April. Space them apart and firm the soil well around each plant.
5 Install Pest Protection
Cover plants with fine netting and fit brassica collars immediately after transplanting to protect against common pests.
6 Feed Plants
Apply a nitrogen-rich fertiliser every 28 days from 25th December until 19th April to support growth through the season.
7 Harvest for Christmas
Harvest sprouts from the bottom of the stalk upwards around 25th December - 23rd February. Pick them when firm and walnut-sized; frost sweetens the flavour, making them perfect for festive meals.
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