Learning how to grow Brussels sprouts is an important part of being a homesteader. Aside from it being a flexible vegetable, Brussels sprouts boasts of high levels of nutrients and healing properties that we need, especially now during this pandemic.
By growing these Brussels sprouts free from clubroot, you are certain your vegetables will grow healthy and disease-free! In addition, now is the perfect time to grow Brussels sprouts when the climate is not too warm and not too cold!
Important Tip: It is always ideal to wash your hands and your gardening tools before working with the plants to further minimize pest problems.
RELATED: Garden Seed Starting Calculator | Homesteading Guide
Step-by-Step Guide to Growing Brussels Sprouts From Seeds Free From Clubroot
What is clubroot? It is a common disease in Brussels sprouts where the roots become distorted and swollen. This results in stunted growth and sometimes even death of the plant.
Things Needed:
- 12-inch diameter pot
- String
- Pitchfork
- Rake
- Trowel
- Garden lime
- Net
- Shears
Step 1: Plant Seeds In Pots
You can use a tray or pot for planting the seeds. Fill it with compost, and press down to remove any air pockets.
Water the compost and plant the seeds on top. You can plant two seeds in each pot or tray section.
Step 2: Cover Seeds With Compost
Cover with a thin layer of compost and firmly press down to remove any air pockets. Keep the seeds at room temperature.
The seeds should have germinated within 14 to 21 days.
Step 3: Plant Outside and Water
When the risk of any frost has passed, it is time to plant outside. Water the plants so it is easier to transfer.
Step 4: Prepare the Soil
Using a piece of string tied between two sticks, mark a straight line in your garden. Overturn the soil with a pitchfork to remove weeds and large stones in the area.
Rake the soil to break up any large stone.
Step 5: Make a Hole In the Soil
Dig a hole with a trowel and use a pot to shape the hole round. Keep pressing to make it deep.
RELATED: Plastic Mulching: Save Garden From Weeds; Boost Harvest
Step 6: Sprinkle With Garden Lime & Fill Hole With Compost
Sprinkle a thin layer of garden lime on the soil. This helps prevent bacteria in the soil, crossing into the plant’s roots.
Fill the hole with compost. This will give the plant a healthy start, free from clubroot.
Step 7: Plant & Water Brussels Sprouts in the Compost
Place the sprouts plant in the compost. Press around the roots carefully so not to damage them.
Water the sprouts. Keep them hydrated.
Step 8: Plant the Rest of the Brussels Sprouts
If you have more Brussels sprouts, plant them the same way.
Be reminded to plant them at least 24 inches apart.
Step 9: Cover With Netting & Water Daily
Using sticks spread around the corner of your plants, cover your plants with netting. Keep them in place with rocks. The purpose of this is to keep your plants away from pigeons and pests such as caterpillars. The net can stop these pests from getting through.
Water the Brussels sprouts every day to help it mature. If the plants have grown large, adjust the netting.
Step 10: Remove the Netting
When the risks of attacks from caterpillars and butterflies lessen, you can now remove the netting.
Step 11: Remove the Lower Leaves
When the sprouts begin to get larger, cut off the lower leaves. Some of the leaves may have fallen off naturally.
Step 12: Harvest the Brussels Sprouts
You know it is time to harvest when the tiny heads are:
- green
- firm
- 1 to 2 inches in diameter
To do this, twist these vegetables from the main stalk. Harvest starting from the bottom of the stalk up to when the sprouts mature.
Tip: Remember that lower sprouts mature earlier than the top ones.
How to Care for Your Brussels Sprouts
- When the vegetables reach 6 inches tall, thin plants to 12 to 24 inches in distance.
- After thinning, fertilize with a nitrogen-rich product. Do this every three to four weeks.
- To keep the temperatures cool and to retain the moisture, always mulch.
- If the weather is too hot or humid, always water the plants.
- Don’t disturb the soil around the plants. Remember that roots are susceptible to damage and that they are very shallow.
- To focus more energy on healthy growth and to allow more sunlight on the stalk, remove the leaves that are yellowing or yellowish.
- Cut off the top leaves three to four weeks before harvest.
To learn more about how to grow Brussels sprouts, watch this video from LearnHow2:
So that’s it! Growing Brussels sprouts is relatively easy, as long as you follow these steps. You will surely benefit from the nutrients this vegetable will give you, especially during this pandemic.
Have you tried growing Brussels sprouts? We’d love to hear some tips and tricks, please share them in the comments section below!
Fellow homesteaders, do you want to help others learn from your journey by becoming one of our original contributors? Write for us!
UP NEXT:
Leave a Reply