Also known as Broccoli · Brussel Sprouts · Cabbage
Brussels Sprouts (Brassica oleracea) are a nutrient-rich vegetable grown for their edible buds, prized for their slightly bitter, nutty flavor after frost.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full sun
100% intensity
Requires at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal growth and sprout production. In hotter climates, partial afternoon shade can be beneficial.
Consistent moisture
75% intensity
Maintain even soil moisture, avoiding waterlogged conditions. Water deeply at the base of the plant, especially during dry periods and sprout formation.
Well-drained, fertile loam
50% intensity
Cool to moderate
75% intensity
Thrives in cooler weather, with optimal growth occurring between 15-24°C. Frost can sweeten the flavor of the sprouts.
High requirement
100% intensity
Benefits from nutrient-rich soil. Fertilize regularly with a balanced fertilizer or compost, especially once sprouts begin to form.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry spells, to encourage good sprout development. Water deeply at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the leaves and potentially causing fungal diseases.
Aim for moist, but not waterlogged, soil throughout the growing season for optimal results.
Pruning is generally minimal for Brussels sprouts. As plants mature and sprouts enlarge, some gardeners pinch off the terminal bud (the very top growing point) in late summer.
This can encourage the lower sprouts to mature more quickly and become larger.
Brussels sprouts are typically grown from seed. Start seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last expected frost, or sow directly into the garden after the danger of frost has passed.
Ensure seeds are planted at the correct depth and kept consistently moist for germination.
Repotting is not applicable as Brussels sprouts are typically grown directly in the ground or in large containers. If grown in containers, ensure the pot is sufficiently large (at least 30 cm diameter and depth) from the start to accommodate their extensive root system and mature size.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Brussels Sprouts (Brassica oleracea)
15 known issues from plant disease data
Sclerotinia rot in Cabbage starts as a soft wet rot on lower leaves or stems, then white cottony growth and black resting bodies appear.
Turnip mosaic on Cauliflower causes mosaic, chlorotic rings or spots, vein necrosis, leaf distortion, and stunting of plants.
Wirestem in Cabbage causes dry sunken cankers at the soil line, thinning stems so seedlings wilt, collapse, or send up weak shoots.
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Brassicales |
| Family | Brassicaceae |
| Genus | Brassica |
| Species | Brassica oleracea |
Similar in genus Brassica
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
