Brussels Sprouts, 'Long Island'

Germination

Sow indoors. Sow onto moist well-drained seed compost. Just cover with soil. Ideal temp. 10-15°C. Germination takes 10 days approx. Transplant seedlings when large enough to handle to 5cm spacing and harden off for 2-3 weeks prior to planting out in their final position with 60cm spacing. Best sown directly from April. Sow 10mm deep into a seed bed. Cover lightly with soil. Thin to 10cm spacing when seedlings have 2 true leaves. If weather is cold offer cloche protection. When danger of frost has passed move to final position with 60cm spacing.

Growing

Keep well watered. Do not allow to dry out. Hand weed if required. Feeding is not required unless the soil is poor. May require a protective netting or fleece to prevent bird attack.

Cultivation

Harvest is usually improved after the first frosts. Remove sprouts from the main stem with a sharp knife, breaking off will damage the main stem. Take the lowest sprouts first and work up the stem as required.