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Annual Biennial

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

Synonyms
Brassica oleracea var. gemmifera
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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metres
Time to ultimate height
1 year
Ultimate spread
0.5–1 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Clay
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
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
H7
Botanical details
Family
Brassicaceae
Native to the UK
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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