Sprouts - Brassica oleracea Gemmifera Group
Full sun.
Jul–Sep depending on sowing time.
Mar–May outdoors after risk of frost.
40–60cm height; 30–50cm spread.
Overview
A hardy winter crop producing sprouts along tall stems. Grow in a sunny spot with firm soil and water during dry spells while plants are young. Pick sprouts from the bottom upwards as they firm up. Best steamed or roasted, and great with bacon, nuts or a splash of butter.
- Vegetable Type: Sprouts
- Key Characteristic: Winter crop producing firm sprouts with sweet, nutty flavour.
- Hardiness: Hardy (tolerates normal UK winter conditions).
PLANTING ADVICE
Plant in firm, fertile soil with good drainage. Best grown in the ground with adequate spacing for large heads.
- Outdoor cultivation
Best grown outdoors in well-prepared soil in full sun or light shade depending on crop.
- Greenhouse cultivation
Not suitable for greenhouse cultivation.
CARE & HARVEST
Keep soil moist and weed free. Firm soil gently around stems to prevent wind rock. Protect from caterpillars with netting where needed. Harvest heads or leaves while young and tender.
- Watering: Water regularly, especially during dry weather, to encourage steady growth and prevent splitting.
- Feeding: Feed with a nitrogen-rich fertiliser in early growth to encourage leafy development.
- Cutting and prunning: Remove any damaged or diseased growth as needed.
- Harvesting: Harvest from the base of the stem upwards once sprouts are firm and walnut-sized.
- Pest and diseases: Protect from cabbage white caterpillars and pigeons with netting.
VERVE RECOMMENDS...
- Harvest little and often to keep plants productive and performing at their best.