The Complete Guide to Growing Brussels Sprouts: Mastering Each Stage from Seed to Harvest

Brussels sprouts are a cool weather vegetable that can be tricky to grow but yield a delicious harvest when cared for properly. Learning the key stages of Brussels sprouts growth will ensure success from seed to harvest. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore each phase of the Brussels sprouts life cycle so you can enjoy a bountiful crop.

Overview of Brussels Sprouts Growth Stages

Brussels sprouts go through the following growth phases

• Germination – Seeds sprout and seedlings emerge in 1-3 weeks
• Leaf Growth – Seedlings focus on root and leaf development in the first few weeks.
• Stem Elongation – Plants grow taller and form sturdy stalks over 2-4 months.
• Flowering – Small yellow flowers bloom on top of stalks signaling the start of sprout formation.
• Sprout Development – Sprouts form and swell along the stalks from bottom to top over 1-2 months.
• Maturity – Sprouts reach full size of 1-2 inches in diameter after 3-5 months total.
• Harvest – Mature sprouts are harvested from the bottom up as needed over 1-2 months.

Proper care through each stage is vital for growing healthy, high-yielding Brussels sprout plants

Detailed Brussels Sprouts Growth Stages

Now let’s explore each Brussels sprouts growth phase in more detail:

1. Germination

• Seeds sprout 1-3 weeks after planting when soil temperature is 45-85°F.
• Ensure consistent moisture – seeds can dry out and fail to germinate.
• Cool weather is ideal – seeds won’t germinate if soil is too warm.
• Expect 50-80% germination rate if planting fresh viable seeds.

2. Seedling Stage

• Focus is on root growth and leaf development.
• Seedlings need 12-15 hours of sun for robust growth.
• Keep soil moist, watering when top 1′′ is dry. Don’t saturate.
• Thin overcrowded seedlings to proper spacing after 4-6 weeks.

3. Vegetative Growth

• Occurs over 2-4 months as plants grow taller and form sturdy stalks.
• Ideal temperature is 60-70°F during this stage.
• Apply balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks to nourish growth.
• Stake or cage plants if needed for support in windy conditions.

4. Flowering

• Initiated by shorter daylight hours and signals start of sprout formation.
• Tiny yellow flowers bloom at tips of stalks in early fall.
• Flowers are not edible – remove to promote sprout growth.
• Sign that sprouts will form in 4-8 weeks if properly cared for.

5. Sprout Development

• Sprouts form along stalks from bottom up over 1-2 months after flowering.
• Ideal temps are 50-65°F for plump sprout growth.
• Soil should be consistently moist – water 1-2 times per week.
• Fertilize every 3-4 weeks to support developing sprouts.

6. Maturity

• Sprouts reach full size of 1-2 inches diameter after 3-5 months total.
• Harvest sprouts promptly once mature to avoid overgrowth.
• Light frost improves flavor but hard freeze damages sprouts.
• Lower leaves yellow and drop as plant declines after producing sprouts.

7. Harvest

• Begin harvesting sprouts from bottom up as they mature.
• Rotate plants, harvesting lowest sprouts first.
• Harvest sprouts by twisting or cutting stalks.
• Brush off any loose outer leaves.
• Store freshly picked sprouts in fridge up to 5 days.

A bumper crop of Brussels sprouts will come from keeping an eye on your plants and giving them the right conditions at each stage of growth. If you take good care of this cool weather crop from seed to harvest, you’ll enjoy its healthy benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions

How tall do Brussels sprouts grow?

Depending on the variety, Brussels sprouts can grow 1-3 feet tall. They form small trees in the garden with their sturdy stalks and leafy tops.

How long does it take Brussels sprouts to mature?

Brussels sprouts are fully grown 80 to 120 days after they are transplanted as seedlings. From planting seeds to harvest, the whole growth cycle takes three to five months.

When should I plant Brussels sprouts?

Plant Brussels sprouts in early spring, around 4-6 weeks before the last expected frost. This gives them time to mature for a fall harvest. In mild winter climates, plant in late summer for winter harvest.

How far apart should I space Brussels sprouts?

Brussels sprouts should be 18 to 24 inches apart and arranged in rows 30 inches apart. Plant in full sun locations with fertile, well-draining soil.

How do I know when to harvest Brussels sprouts?

Harvest Brussels sprouts when the bottom sprouts reach 1-2 inches diameter. Pick off the lowest, largest sprouts first and work upwards as they mature. Harvest before a hard freeze for best flavor.

Can I grow Brussels sprouts from grocery store seeds?

Yes, you can grow Brussels sprouts from the seeds found in grocery store sprouts. Start seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before transplanting. Be aware seeds could be hybrid varieties.

Do Brussels sprouts come back every year?

No, Brussels sprouts are an annual vegetable. To keep getting a harvest every year, you have to replant them every growing season. They don’t regrow from roots the following spring.

Why are the leaves on my Brussels sprouts turning yellow?

It’s normal for lower leaves to yellow and drop off as the plant finishes producing sprouts. This indicates the plant is maturing. As long as sprouts look healthy, it’s nothing to worry about.

How can I get bigger Brussels sprouts?

Use fertile soil, apply a balanced fertilizer during growth, ensure consistent watering, and remove the top of plants in late summer to promote sprout growth over vertical growth.

With the proper care and timing for your climate, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of homegrown Brussels sprouts. Follow this guide to master the stages of Brussels sprouts growth from seed to maturity.