Brussels Sprouts Hestia - Renee's Garden Seeds

To Start Early Indoors Start seeds 4-5 weeks before last expected spring frost and again in midsummer for a fall crop. Sow seeds 1 in. apart in a container of seed starting mix, cover lightly, about 1/4 in. deep and keep evenly moist. Provide a strong light source. When seedlings are large enough to handle, gradually acclimate to outdoor conditions, then transplant 24 in. apart into very fertile, well-drained soil in full sun. 

To Start Outdoors In early summer, plant seeds in well-worked, fertile soil in full sun. Plant groups of 2 seeds 1/4 in. deep and 2 ft. apart. Space rows 18 in. apart. Thin to 1 strong seedling per group so plants have room to mature and grow.

Brussels sprouts thrive in rich soil amended with lots of organic matter. Keep growing plants well watered and weeded. Feed at least monthly with all-purpose fertilizer. Use non-toxic B.T. (Bacillus thuringiensis) products to repel caterpillar pests as necessary and wash away aphids if they appear. 

Harvest and Use: Mulch plants well and begin harvesting when sprouts are well pilled out, but still tightly closed. Pick lowest sprouts on the elongated stem first, so higher sprouts will continue to grow. Mature Brussels sprouts will handle light frosts and cold weather actually sweetens their flavor.