Brassica oleracea Gemmifera Group
Brussels sprout
This group has been selected and bred to have lots of tight sidebuds off the thick, approximately 1m tall stem. The leafy buds known as brussel sprouts are generally 2 to 4cm large, ready in time for Christmas. They are in effect, small, bite-sized cabbages
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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
1 yearUltimate spread
0.5–1 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green | |||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or North–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Brassicaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Columnar upright
- Genus
Brassicas can be annual, biennial or perennial plants, most are upright with alternate, often glaucous leaves, long taproots and clusters of cross-shaped, yellow or white flowers. The genus includes a number of species bred to produce food crops, such as cabbages, turnips, mustards and oilseed rape, as well as others grown for their ornamental value
- Name status
Accepted
- Plant range
- W Europe
How to grow
Cultivation
Sow seed outdoors in fertile but firm, soil that isn't too acidic. Or if space is limited, start the seeds in modules or seedtrays and plant outside when big enough to handle easily (about 5 or 6 leaves). Support plants in late summer with a sturdy bamboo cane to protect from wind. For more advice see brussels-sprout cultivation
Propagation
Propagate by seed. See sowing vegetable seeds or sowing seeds indoors
Suggested planting locations and garden types
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
May be susceptible to flea beetle, cabbage root fly, caterpillars, pigeons and snails, although once plants are established, this damage isn't usually severe. Heavy infestations of mealy cabbage aphid may also spoil the harvest
Diseases
May be susceptible to brassica downy mildew and brassica white blister. In areas where brassicas have been grown before, club root can build up in the soil
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