Brussel sprouts
Brassica oleracea var. gemmifera
History
Brssuel sprouts were first cultivated in what would be modern day brussels in the 13th century. while the roman grew the predicesor to the modern brussel sprout the main focus was on the cabbage and broccoli. In the 1990s a dutch scientict isoltaled sinigrin and progoitrin the 2 chimcals responsible for the bitter taste and making them sweeter
Growing conditions
Sunlight
Needs atleast 6 hours of direct sunlight.
Temperature Range
50F-75F
Bolting can occur over 75F.
Soil Conditions
Sandy Loam soil.
Water
1 to 2 inches of water per week.
Water the plants when the topsoil is dry to the touch.
Nutrients
10-10-5
Adding a nitrogen rich compost can help encourage the growth.
pH
6.0-7.0
Plant care
Sowing Seeds
Plant seeds once the first of frosthas passed. Plant seeds 1/4" to a 1/2" deep and space them 4 to 6 inches apart. Cover with straw to help retain moisture.
Germination
Seeds can take 3 to 10 days to germinate
Once the seeds have sprouted thin out the plants to a 18 to 24 inches of space between plants.
Pruning
Once the plant has Several sets of true leaves trim back the lowest sets to focus enery on the sprouts.
Harvest
Wait until the sprouts are firm with 1 to 2 inches in diameter. gently twist the sprouts off.
Growing Tips
Once sprouts have begun to develop top the plant to focus energy on the already growing sprouts.
If possible wait for the first frost to sweeten them up.
Garden plotter quick facts
Spacing
10" to 16"
Water needs
Moderate
Sunlight
Full Sun
A warm-season crop producing juicy red fruits.
