Brussels sprouts
Brassica oleracea var. gemmifera
Botanical family: Brassicaceae
A cultivar of Brassica oleracea var. gemmifera, selected around Brussels in the 18th-19th centuries. A tall stem (60-80 cm) bearing 30 to 60 axillary buds ('sprouts'). Sow in a frame in March-April, transplant in May, harvest spread from October to February moving up the stem. Sensitive to flea beetles at the young stage (insect-proof mesh) and to the cabbage white in summer.
Full sun
Deep, rich, cool, slightly compacted
Regular
Very hardy (-10 °C, frost improves the flavour)
Overwinters in your zone
Role in permaculture
A late long-season brassica: occupies the soil from April to February. An excellent autumn and winter transition plant, to be earthed up for stability. Pinching out the head ('topping') in late August encourages the sprouts to swell evenly. Frost converts starch into sugars: the sweetest harvest is after the first frosts.
Good companions
Attract pollinators and beneficial insects
Trap plants (variable effect, need watching)
Aromatic: scent said to confuse pests
Poor companions
Same family: shared diseases and pests
Traditional avoidance (antagonism not demonstrated)
Insects attracted or useful
Known pests & diseases
Pests and diseases that commonly affect this plant, tap to learn how to recognise and manage them.
Seasons & availability
Picked from October to February, after the first frosts.
Available: January, February, October, November, December.
Guidance for the oceanic / temperate climate; it may vary with your region, altitude, exposure and growing method.
Sources
- RHS, « How to Grow Brussels sprouts » (rhs.org.uk/vegetables/brussels-sprouts/grow-your-own)
- Garden Organic, « Brussels sprouts » (gardenorganic.org.uk/expert-advice/how-to-grow/growing-guides/vegetables-herbs-guides/how-to-grow-brussels-sprouts)
Nutritional & medicinal properties
For educational purposes. Not a substitute for medical advice. Effects depend on the form, the dose and personal context.
Precautions & contraindications
Like the other cabbages, it can cause bloating and digestive discomfort in sensitive people; sufficient cooking improves its digestibility. Its notable vitamin K content deserves attention in people on vitamin-K-antagonist (VKA) anticoagulants, who must keep regular intake and speak to their doctor.
Family behaviour: Brassicaceae
In general, Brassicaceae produce glucosinolates, sulphur compounds with a mild biocidal effect on the soil (a biofumigant effect, sometimes sought between two sensitive crops). Members of the cabbage and mustard family, they are prone to the cabbage white and clubroot.
Understanding families means learning one rule per family rather than every pairing one by one. Learn more →
Species & varieties
The best-known species and varieties in France.