Eric Hunt / CC BY 2.5
garden
Brussels sprouts
Brassica oleracea var. gemmifera
Edible
Edible Partsbuds, leaves
Overview
Miniature cabbage-like sprouts that grow spiraling up a tall stalk, Brussels sprouts were developed near Brussels, Belgium in the 13th century. Their flavor dramatically improves after a frost, which converts starches to sugars, making them a perfect late-fall and winter crop. Modern cultivars have been bred for sweeter, less bitter flavor profiles than the sprouts many grew up dreading.
Growing Conditions
LightFull Sun
MoistureModerate
Hardiness Zones2 — 10
Height0.8m
Spread0.5m
Growth HabitForb/herb
LifespanBiennial
Pollinator Valuemoderate
Companion Planting & Soil
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Soil pH6 — 7.5
Soil TypeFirm, fertile, well-drained soil with consistent moisture
Planting Calendar
When to sow, transplant, and harvest by growing zone.
| Zone | Action | Months | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cold (1-2) | Start Indoors | Mar — Apr | Start indoors 12-14 weeks before first fall frost |
| Cold (1-2) | Transplant | May — Jun | Transplant after last frost; needs 90-100 days |
| Cold (1-2) | Harvest | Sep — Oct | Harvest bottom-up after first frost; twist off sprouts |
| Cool (3-4) | Start Indoors | Apr — May | Start indoors in spring for fall harvest |
| Cool (3-4) | Transplant | May — Jun | Transplant in late spring; harvest after frost |
| Cool (3-4) | Harvest | Oct — Nov | Harvest after frost from bottom up; cold sweetens flavor |
| Moderate (5-7) | Start Indoors | Apr — May | Start indoors; time for harvest after first frost |
| Moderate (5-7) | Transplant | Jun — Jul | Transplant midsummer for fall/winter harvest |
| Moderate (5-7) | Harvest | Oct — Dec | Harvest after first frost; frost is essential for best flavor |
| Warm (8-9) | Start Indoors | Jun — Jul | Start indoors midsummer for winter harvest |
| Warm (8-9) | Transplant | Jul — Aug | Transplant in late summer |
| Warm (8-9) | Harvest | Nov — Feb (wraps) | Harvest during cool months |
| Hot (10+) | Start Indoors | Jul — Aug | Start indoors in summer |
| Hot (10+) | Transplant | Aug — Sep | Transplant early fall; needs cool weather to form sprouts |
| Hot (10+) | Harvest | Dec — Feb (wraps) | Harvest in winter |
Uses
Culinary
- Roasted with olive oil until caramelized and crispy
- Shredded raw into salads and slaws
- Sautéed with bacon, balsamic, or maple glaze
Medicinal
- High in glucosinolates linked to cancer prevention
- Rich in vitamin K and vitamin C
- Good source of ALA omega-3 fatty acids
Other Uses
- Architectural garden interest on tall stalks
