Brussels sprouts are like miniature cabbages, a hardy vegetable that usually requires a long growing period. If you do not have the patience, try the newer hybrids. They have a much shorter time requirement. Brussels sprouts have better quality when they are grown during cool weather.
Nutrition
Brussels sprouts are rich in Vitamin A, calcium, folate, manganese, potassium, etc, They are rich in protein, and have a low fat count. Three-quarters cup of cooked Brussels sprouts equals three grams of fiber and approximately 45 calories.
Brussels Sprouts
Container Brussels Sprouts Gardening
Brussels sprouts are usually started indoors and are then transplanted outdoors. However, they are a good candidate for container gardening as well.
- For one plant, you will need a 5-gallon container. For two plants, use a 15-gallon container.
- If your container does not drain well, drill additional holes along its sides about half an inch from the bottom. Add about an inch of coarse gravel to the bottom of the container.
- If you need to move your container around to suit the plants’ weather requirement, it will be helpful to place them on mobile platforms. To set them on blocks of wood or brick, whichever you desire, allow about one or two inches from the floor.
- It is not advisable to use garden soil, as it is heavy and may come with all kinds of disease spores, weed seeds, insect eggs, etc. You may want to make your own potting mix, with or without soil, to ensure proper moisture retention. Sterilizing your potting soil is worthwhile.
- If you are using soilless mixes, remember to fertilize regularly. If you are purchasing the fertilizer, use 5-10-10 and 10-10-10 NPKs, or 14-14-14 time-release. If your fertilizer does not contain trace elements of magnesium and boron, get some and mix it with your fertilizer. Follow the directions carefully. For container gardens, you may want to use only half the recommended quantity on the label, and fertilizing twice as often.
- When irrigating, do not use warm water. It does nothing for the root development of your Brussels sprouts.
Suggested Varieties
The Jade Cross is a medium-sized plant with medium-sized sprouts. It is a good candidate for container gardening. It matures in 90 days, and is resistant to yellowing or wilting. The Jade Cross E has larger sprouts, which are easier to take from the stems than the original Jade Cross. Other varieties are Bubbles, Valiant, Prince Royal, Marvel Royal, Oliver, etc.
