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Brussels Sprouts in Cardiff

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

    16 Mar – 31 Mar

    Sow seeds indoors in modules around 16th March - 31st March for a Christmas harvest. Cover with of compost and keep at until germination.

  2. Prick Out Seedlings

    6 Apr – 13 Apr

    Prick out seedlings into individual pots once they have true leaves, around 6th April - 13th April. Handle carefully to avoid damaging the stems.

  3. Harden Off Plants

    27 Apr – 4 May

    Harden off plants over 7-10 days around 27th April - 4th May to prepare them for outdoor conditions.

  4. Transplant Outdoors

    29 Apr – 13 May

    Transplant seedlings to their final position around 29th April - 13th May. Space them apart and firm the soil well around each plant.

  5. Install Pest Protection

    6 May – 13 May

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

  6. Feed Plants

    20 May – 3 Dec
    every 4 weeks

    Apply a nitrogen-rich fertiliser every 28 days from 20th May until 3rd December to support growth through the season.

  7. Harvest for Christmas

    3 Dec – 1 Feb

    Harvest sprouts from the bottom of the stalk upwards around 3rd December - 1st February. 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.