Marte Brussels Sprouts

Planting:

Plant seeds 1⁄4-1⁄2 inches deep. Transplant or thin small plants to 15-18 inches apart in rows 32-36 inches apart. Transplants can be started in April for May planting. Transplant after 4-6 weeks. Use a starter fertilizer, soaking the root ball thoroughly prior to transplanting. Direct seed in late spring, as seedlings can tolerate a light frost. Brussels Sprouts can be direct seeded up until mid-late June for a continuous harvest. Soil temperature should be 21-26 degrees C for optimal germination in 4-7 days.

Growing:

Brussels Spouts prefer full sun, but will tolerate part shade. Prepare a rich, loose soil that holds moisture well and has pH level of 6.0-6.5. Brussels Sprouts are heavy feeders and will also benefit from applications of boron, calcium and magnesium, particularly during the early stages of growth.

Harvest:

To encourage development of the upper sprouts, pinch out the growing tip of the plant in late summer. Harvest sprouts as needed from the bottom of the stalk when they are about 1-11⁄2 inches in diameter. The sprouts will develop a sweeter flavour after a few light frosts.