7 Proven Steps For Growing Brussels Sprouts From Scraps
- Author: Saiqa Najeeb
- Last Updated On: July 1, 2023
Imagine growing Brussels sprouts from scraps on your doorstep. Intrigued? You can easily get plenty of Brussels sprouts from the comfort of your home. It’s time to say goodbye to lackluster Brussels sprouts bought from the store and say hello to fresh, crunchy, and full of nutrition, Brussels sprouts at your own pace.
This guide will walk you through all the steps that you need to take to successfully grow Brussels sprouts from scraps. Read on to explore all the juicy insights!
About Brussels Sprouts
Brussel sprouts grow best in cooler locations with plenty of sunlight and well-drained, fertile soil. Early summer is the ideal time to plant Brussels sprouts, allowing you to harvest fully grown sprouts in the autumn. Before planting, add an adequate quantity of organic matter and fertilizer to help produce a higher yield. Fertilization during sprout formation is not considered good for the plants as it results in splitting and loose, soft sprouts.
Recommended Varieties
- Long Island Improved (90 days)
- Prince Marvel (100 days)
- Jade Cross (100 days)
Growing Conditions
Light: 6 or more hours of direct sunlight a day
Soil Texture: Sand, Clay, Silty Loam
Soil pH: Neutral (6.0-8.0), Acid (<6.0),
Soil Drainage: Moist, well-drained soil
Available Space To Plant: 12 inches-3 feet
USDA Plant Hardiness Zone: 6a, 7a, 8a, 9a, 6b, 7b,, 8b, 9b
How to Grow Brussels Sprouts
1
Preparing scraps
For growing Brussels sprouts from scraps, wash the Brussels sprouts scraps and peel off all the dead leaves from the bottom. Cut off the base of the sprouts and dip them in a container of water. Make sure the cut portion of the sprouts is submerged in the water. Let it grow roots and when the seedlings become 2 to 3inches tall, transplant them to the garden soil
2
Soil Preparation
The ideal soil is fertile, abundant in organic matter, and well-drained for growing Brussels sprouts from scraps. Add 15 to 20 pounds of compost and 4 to 6 cups of 16-16-8 or 10-10-10 all-purpose fertilizer per 100 square feet before transplanting the seedlings.
3
Planting and Spacing
Before planting, transplants should have 4-6 mature leaves and a well-developed root system. Generally, it takes 5-6 weeks to grow transplants to this size.
Seeded or transplanted Brussels sprouts should be planted 12-18 inches apart in rows 2 feet apart. Temperatures over 70°F are ideal for growing Brussels sprouts, and temperatures below freezing are not harmful. It takes a long time for Brussels sprouts to mature. Plants should be planted in the early summer (early June to late July) for fall maturity. Brussels sprouts that have been seeded can be planted at the same time. They should be planted so that the sprouts appear as the weather cools in the autumn. Summer heat reduces plant development, reduces sprout quality, and causes interior tip burn.
4
Watering and fertilization
When watering Brussels sprouts, be sure to evenly distribute the moisture in the soil and water infrequently but deeply. Each week, around 1-2 inches of water are needed. If possible, use drip irrigation to save water. Mulching around the plant also helps conserve soil moisture and inhibits weed growth. During heading, moisture changes cause sprouts to split apart or develop bitter flavors.
To enhance rapid plant growth, apply 12 cups of nitrogen-based fertilizer (21-0-0) per 10 feet of row at 4 and 8 weeks after transplanting or thinning. After sprouts appear, avoid applying additional nitrogen, as high nitrogen levels result in loose shoots and splitting. Sprinkle the fertilizer into the soil six inches from the plant.
5
Mulches and Row Covers
When transplanting, you can use plastic mulches to reduce weeds’ growth and conserve water. Alternatively, you can use fabric covers to protect young plants from insects. If the temperature rises above 80°F, apply organic mulch. You can use different types of organic mulches such as straws, grass clippings, shredded newspaper, etc. It will help you to suppress weeds, decrease the water stress and cool down the soil.
6
Managing Pests and diseases
Here are some conditions you may encounter while growing Brussels sprouts from scraps.
- Aphids: Aphids are soft-bodied, green, or black insects that eat the underside of leaves. The leaves wrinkle and curl. To get rid of insects, use insecticidal soaps, the proper insecticides, or a strong water stream.
- Cabbage Worms and Loopers: Worms range from pale to dark green in color. While cabbage worms are white butterflies, adult loopers are grey or brown-colored moths. Worms and loopers hide in the heads of Brussels sprouts and eat holes in leaves. Use the necessary pesticides or biological controls to get rid of these pests.
- Flea Beetles: Flea insects: Tiny, black, seed-eating insects. Adults gnaw little holes in leaves and cotyledons. Beetles may destroy seedlings or diminish plant standing. Use the proper insecticides at seeding or after seedlings have sprouted from the soil to control beetles.
7
Harvest And Storage
When Brussels sprouts are solid and compact, they should be harvested when they are 1 inch in diameter. The first sprouts to appear are those at the base of the plant. Sprouts higher on the stem keep growing when they are harvested. When the lower sprouts start to appear, remove the growing point at the top of the plant for a more uniform sprout development along the entire stem. Sprouts can be obtained by clipping the stem or breaking it. Brussels sprouts can be preserved at 95% relative humidity and 32°F for 2-6 months. The bitter flavors of apples, pears, and other ethylene-producing fruits will develop if Brussels sprouts are stored with them.
Let’s Grow Brussels Sprouts!
Now, you’re ready for growing Brussels sprouts from scraps. It offers an eco-friendly and sustainable way to transform your scraps into nutritious greens. Plus, you don’t have to buy store-bought Brussels sprouts and can have a continuous supply right from your home.
With the help of this guide, you’ll be able to plant, care, and successfully harvest Brussels sprouts without any hassle. So, get ready to hit the garden and get your hands dirty!
