Brussels sprouts are a long-haul winter crop for the patient gardener — months in the ground, but a tall stalk studded with sprouts is a real prize, and they're sweetest after a cold snap.
Quick facts
- Position: full sun
- Spacing: 50–60 cm apart
- Tub depth: our 35 cm depth
- Time to harvest: 4–6 months
When to plant: Sprouts need a long, cool season — plant in late summer to autumn so they mature through the cold, which sweetens them. Our free planting calendar shows the right months for your postcode.
Growing them in a raised bed: Plant into rich, firm mix and stake tall plants in windy spots. Like all brassicas they're a caterpillar magnet, so net the bed early. Pinch out the top once the lower sprouts are forming to size them up.
Watering and feeding: Water deeply and evenly and feed well — a long crop needs steady nutrition.
Common pests: keep an eye out for caterpillars, aphids and whiteflies. Most are easily managed — see our safe pest guide.
Common diseases: the main ones are downy mildew and leaf spot. Good airflow, morning watering and steady moisture prevent most.
Companion plants: Aromatic herbs are good neighbours; keep brassicas away from strawberries. See our companion planting guide.
Harvest and storage: Pick sprouts from the bottom of the stalk up, once they're firm and walnut-sized. They hold on the plant for weeks, so take them as you need them.
More growing guides: cabbage, kale and broccoli.
Plan your patch: our free planting calendar shows what to plant now where you live. Ready to grow? Browse our raised garden beds or build your own with the garden bed builder.
Image: Jeffery Martin, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons.
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