Brussels sprouts, with their unique, miniature cabbage-like appearance, add a distinctive charm to any garden. These plants grow tall, sturdy stalks adorned with rows of small, round sprouts that develop along the stem. Their striking form and texture make Brussels sprouts a visually interesting addition to your garden beds.

In Florida planting zone 9, Brussels sprouts thrive best during the cooler months. The sprouts form tightly along the stems, creating a fascinating display as they mature. Watching these little green orbs develop is a rewarding experience, as they transform from tiny buds into plump, harvestable sprouts.

For those new to gardening, Brussels sprouts offer both a visual treat and a culinary delight. These vegetables are not only attractive but also packed with nutrients. Whether roasted, steamed, or sautéed, Brussels sprouts add a delicious and healthy element to your meals, making your gardening efforts worthwhile.

I would give Brussels sprouts a 3 out of 5 on how easy they are to grow. While they do require some attention to temperature and timing, they are still quite manageable for beginners with a bit of planning.

Explanation:

• Start Seeds Inside: Starting Brussels sprouts seeds indoors in late summer allows for controlled conditions, ensuring strong seedlings ready for transplanting outdoors in the fall.

• Direct Seed: Direct seeding Brussels sprouts during the cooler months allows for rapid germination and establishment, avoiding the stress of high temperatures.

• Transplant Starter Plants: Transplanting Brussels sprouts starter plants in the cooler months helps them establish quickly and take advantage of the full growing season, leading to healthier and more productive plants.

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• Soil: Brussels sprouts prefer well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. Add compost or well-rotted manure to enrich the soil before planting.

• Sun: Full sun is ideal, but Brussels sprouts can tolerate partial shade, especially in hotter climates. An ideal average temperature is around 58–60°F. Warm weather causes individual sprouts to be soft and open rather than solid and tightly packed.

• Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Mulching can help retain soil moisture and regulate temperature.

• Spacing: Plant seedlings 18-24 inches apart in rows spaced and 18-24 inches apart to allow adequate air circulation and room for growth.

• Fertilization:
  N-P-K Ratio: Brussels sprouts benefit from a balanced fertilizer with a higher nitrogen content to support leafy growth, such as 10-10-10 or 14-14-14.

  When to Add:

  • Before Planting: Apply the balanced fertilizer to the soil before planting seeds or transplants to promote strong initial growth.

  • Mid-Growing Season: Reapply the fertilizer about four weeks after planting and again when the sprouts start to form to support continued growth and sprout development.

  Application Tips:

  • Follow the directions on the fertilizer package to avoid over-fertilization.

  • Apply the fertilizer evenly around the base of the plants and water thoroughly to help the nutrients reach the roots.

  Additional Tips:

  • Brussels sprouts prefer well-drained soil rich in organic matter, so consider adding compost to improve soil fertility and structure.

  • Mulch around the plants to help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.

  • Ensure that Brussels sprouts receive consistent moisture, especially during sprout formation, to prevent stress and promote even growth.

Blog post on Natural Fertilizers

• Harvest: Brussels sprouts are ready to harvest when the sprouts, or buds, are about 1-2 inches in diameter, typically 85-110 days after planting. Start picking from the bottom of the plant and work your way up by twisting or cutting off the firm, compact sprouts. Pick the sprouts at about 2-week intervals and keep refrigerated in the crisper. Temperatures of 32–34°F and a relative humidity of 90–95% are best.

By selecting the right varieties and following these growing tips, you can enjoy a successful harvest of Brussels sprouts in your Florida garden.

Pests and Diseases that affect Brussels Sprouts in Florida

Pests and Diseases

• Aphids: Small insects that suck sap from the leaves and stems, causing curling and yellowing.

• Cabbage Worms: Caterpillars that chew large holes in the leaves.

• Flea Beetles: Small beetles that chew small holes in the leaves.

• Cutworms: Caterpillars that cut down young plants at the base.

Natural Pest Control

• Downy Mildew: A fungal disease that causes yellowing leaves with a fuzzy, grayish growth on the underside.

• Clubroot: A fungal disease that causes swollen and distorted roots, leading to stunted growth.

Companion Plants

1. Marigold

• Description: Marigolds are bright, sunny flowers that come in a variety of colors including yellow, orange, and red.

• Growing Season: Spring through fall

• USDA Planting Zone: 2-11

• Special Notes: Marigolds release chemicals in the soil that deter nematodes and other soil-borne pests.

• How it Helps: Marigolds help repel aphids, flea beetles, and other pests. Their roots secrete a substance that helps prevent nematodes, protecting Brussels sprouts’ root system.

2. Onions

• Description: Onions are bulbous vegetables with a pungent taste and strong aroma.

• Growing Season: Fall to spring

• USDA Planting Zone: 3-9

• Special Notes: Onions prefer full sun and well-drained soil.

• How it Helps: Onions help repel aphids, flea beetles, and other pests that can damage Brussels sprouts. Their strong odor masks the scent of Brussels sprouts, making it harder for pests to locate them.

3. Dill

• Description: Dill is an herb with feathery green leaves and yellow flowers, known for its use in pickling.

• Growing Season: Spring to early summer

• USDA Planting Zone: 2-11

• Special Notes: Dill prefers full sun and well-drained soil.

• How it Helps: Dill attracts beneficial insects such as ladybugs and predatory wasps that prey on aphids, cabbage worms, and flea beetles. It also helps improve the health of surrounding plants by enhancing their growth.

4. Chamomile

• Description: Chamomile is a daisy-like herb known for its small, white flowers and calming properties.

• Growing Season: Spring to summer

• USDA Planting Zone: 3-9

• Special Notes: Prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil.

• How it Helps: Chamomile attracts beneficial insects like hoverflies and parasitic wasps that prey on aphids and other pests. It also has antifungal properties that can help protect Brussels sprouts from diseases.

5. Thyme

• Description: Thyme is a low-growing perennial herb with small, aromatic leaves and purple or pink flowers.

• Growing Season: Spring to fall

• USDA Planting Zone: 5-9

• Special Notes: Thyme prefers full sun and well-drained soil.

• How it Helps: Thyme helps repel cabbage worms, flea beetles, and other pests with its strong aroma. It also attracts beneficial insects that prey on pests affecting Brussels sprouts.

These companion plants help protect Brussels sprouts from pests and diseases while also enhancing the overall health and productivity of the garden.

For Brussels sprouts, here are the vegetable plants that should not be planted nearby:

1. Strawberries - Can attract pests and diseases harmful to Brussels sprouts.

2. Tomatoes - Compete for nutrients and can attract pests that affect Brussels sprouts.

3. Peppers - Can stunt the growth of Brussels sprouts.

4. Beans - Can inhibit the growth of Brussels sprouts.

5. Other Brassicas (Cabbage, Cauliflower, Broccoli, Kale) - Compete for the same nutrients and can attract similar pests and diseases.