Everything you need to know about Brussel Sprout seeds

Growing Brussel Sprout Seeds Questions & Answers



What month do you plant brussel sprouts?
If you're starting with seeds indoors, you can plant them 4-6 weeks before the last frost date in your area. This typically falls in February or March for many regions with moderate climates. Directly sowing seeds outdoors is best in late spring or early summer, once the danger of frost has completely passed. This usually occurs in May or June for most temperate climates.

Can you grow brussel sprouts from a brussel sprout?
Technically, it is possible to grow Brussel sprouts from a store-bought Brussel sprout although success can be spotty. Choose a firm, healthy sprout, cut off the bottom and place in a shallow dish of water. Keep in a warm, well-lit location and change the water regularly to prevent rot. When you see roots emerge, plant the sprout in well-draining soil.

Do brussel sprouts come back every year?
Brussels sprouts are biennial and can technically live for two years. However they are typically grown and harvested within one season, requiring replanting for a continuous supply.

How long does it take to grow brussel sprouts from seed?
Brussels sprouts take roughly 70-120 days from seed to harvest, with variations depending on variety, planting season, and growing conditions.

What is the secret to growing brussel sprouts?
There's no single "secret" to growing brussel sprouts, but rather a combination of good practices: start with healthy seeds, provide cool weather and full sun, well-drained fertile soil, consistent watering, and regular feeding.

How many brussel sprouts will one plant produce?
Different Brussels sprout varieties have inherent differences in their potential yield. Some types can produce upwards of 50 sprouts per plant, while others may only yield around 20.

Are brussel sprouts hard to grow from seed?
While they require specific care, brussel sprouts aren't particularly difficult to grow from seed. Their main challenge is their long growing season (70-120 days to mature during which they require consistent care).

What is the lifespan of brussel sprouts?
Brussels sprouts are considered biennials. In the first year the produce edible sprouts during the growing season and then enter a dormant phase in late fall/winter. The second year the plant may flower in Spring and may produce seeds, completing its life cycle.

What can I plant next to brussel sprouts?
Good companions for brussel sprouts include dill and marigolds to attract beneficial insects and repel pest, beans to fix nitrogen in the soil or carrots, which some gardeners claim improve the flavor of the sprouts.

Why didn't my brussel sprouts produce?
Several factors could be at play. Planting too late in the season, when temperatures are already hot, can hinder their growth and lead to bolting (early flowering). Insufficient sunlight, poor soil quality or drainage or inconsistent watering could also play a role.

Do Brussels sprouts need full sun?
Brussels sprouts require full sun to thrive. They need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and sprout production.

How do I know when brussel sprouts are ready to harvest?
Aim for a firm size of 2.5-5 cm. They should feel solid and tight to the touch and bright green in color. Remember to harvest lower sprouts first.

Do brussel sprout plants have deep roots?
Brussels sprouts are considered shallow-rooted vegetables, with most of their roots concentrated in the top 30-45 cm of soil.

Should I cut the leaves off my brussel sprouts?
You don't need to routinely cut the leaves off your Brussels sprouts. In fact, doing so can have negative consequences as leaves are essential for photosynthesis and provide shade and protection for the developing sprouts.