Brussels Sprouts Growing Guide Brassica oleracea var. gemmifera Crop Rotation Group Brassicas (Cabbage family) ● Soil Rich, deep soil, firm with plenty of well rotted compost dug in. Position Full sun. Frost tolerant Yes, improves with frost. Feeding Mix composted manure or another high-nitrogen compost into the soil before planting. Add a slow release organic fertiliser to the planting hole before transplanting. Spraying leaves with dilute seaweed spray prevents birds eating them. Spacing Single Plants: 60cm (1' 11") each way (minimum) Rows: 60cm (1' 11") with 60cm (1' 11") row gap (minimum) Sow and Plant Sow early to mid summer. Sow in seedtrays or pots as they take quite a while to reach transplanting stage and during that time a quick summer crop can be grown and harvested in the garden. Firm soil well when transplanting. Plant out when about 10 cm high Our Garden Planner can produce a personalised calendar of when to sow, plant and harvest for your area. Notes Surround stem with a 10cm mat with a slit cut into it for the stem to prevent cabbage root fly from destroying the roots. Use fine mesh or fleece over the summer to prevent butterflies laying eggs on the underside of leaves - caterpillars can destroy these plants. Protect against birds which can damage the young seedlings and overwintering crops. May need supportive canes during the winter. Harvesting Harvest from the bottom of the plant upward, twisting off sprouts that are larger than a marble. Removing nearby leaves helps to make room for growing sprouts. Troubleshooting Brussels sprouts are a mecca for aphids. Plant tansy next to it to encourage ladybirds or spray with a garlic and soap spray Planting and Harvesting Calendar < Back to All Plants Pests which Affect Brussels Sprouts Aphid, Cabbage Aphids (General) Slug Snail Plant Diseases which Affect Brussels Sprouts Brassica Alternaria Leaf Spot Brassica Black Rot Brassica Club Root Brassica Downy Mildew