Beat the odds: learn how to plant brussels sprouts in july and enjoy a bountiful harvest
What To Know
- While it’s typically recommended to start them indoors in early spring, planting them in July is still possible with a few adjustments.
- Clubroot is a soil-borne disease that causes the roots of brussel sprout plants to swell and deform.
- Planting brussel sprouts in July is a great way to extend your harvest and enjoy fresh, homegrown sprouts throughout the fall and winter.
The answer is a resounding yes! Brussels sprouts are a cool-season crop that thrives during the fall and winter months. While it’s typically recommended to start them indoors in early spring, planting them in July is still possible with a few adjustments.
Why Plant Brussel Sprouts in July?
There are several advantages to planting brussel sprouts in July:
- Extended harvest: By starting them late, you can extend your harvest into the colder months, enjoying fresh sprouts well into the winter.
- Avoid pests and diseases: Early-season pests and diseases are less prevalent in July, giving your plants a healthier start.
- Take advantage of summer warmth: July provides ample sunlight and warmth, which can help the plants establish quickly.
Choosing the Right Variety
When selecting a brussel sprout variety for July planting, choose varieties that are known for their fast growth and cold tolerance. Some recommended options include:
- Jade Cross: A hybrid variety that matures in as little as 80 days.
- Long Island Improved: An heirloom variety known for its large, firm sprouts.
- Scarlet: A compact variety that is well-suited for container gardening.
Site Selection and Preparation
Brussels sprouts prefer well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Choose a site that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. Amend the soil with compost or manure to improve its fertility and drainage.
Planting Instructions
- Start seeds indoors: If starting seeds indoors, sow them in seed-starting trays filled with a sterile seed-starting mix. Keep the soil moist and provide plenty of light.
- Transplant seedlings: When seedlings have developed 2-3 true leaves, transplant them outdoors. Space the plants 18-24 inches apart.
- Direct sow: You can also direct sow brussel sprout seeds in July. Sow them 1/2 inch deep, spacing the seeds 2-3 inches apart. Thin the seedlings to 18-24 inches apart once they have emerged.
Care and Maintenance
- Water regularly: Water the plants deeply and regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.
- Fertilize: Fertilize the plants every few weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
- Weed control: Keep the area around the plants weed-free to prevent competition for nutrients and water.
- Hilling: As the plants grow, hill soil around the base of the stems to support them and encourage root development.
Pest and Disease Management
- Aphids: Aphids are small, green insects that can suck the sap from brussel sprout plants. Control aphids by spraying with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Cabbage worms: Cabbage worms are caterpillars that feed on the leaves of brussel sprout plants. Handpick the worms or use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), a natural insecticide.
- Clubroot: Clubroot is a soil-borne disease that causes the roots of brussel sprout plants to swell and deform. Avoid planting in areas where clubroot has been present in the past, and practice crop rotation.
Harvesting
Brussels sprouts are ready to harvest when the sprouts are firm and about 1-2 inches in diameter. Use a sharp knife to cut the sprouts from the stem. Store the sprouts in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Wrap Up
Planting brussel sprouts in July is a great way to extend your harvest and enjoy fresh, homegrown sprouts throughout the fall and winter. By following these tips, you can successfully grow brussel sprouts in July and reap the benefits of this nutritious and delicious vegetable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I grow brussel sprouts in containers?
A: Yes, brussel sprouts can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the plants’ root system. Choose a container that is at least 12 inches deep and 18 inches wide.
Q: How often should I water brussel sprouts?
A: Water brussel sprout plants deeply and regularly, especially during hot, dry weather. Aim to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Q: What is the ideal soil pH for brussel sprouts?
A: Brussel sprouts prefer well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. If your soil is too acidic or alkaline, you can amend it with lime or sulfur to adjust the pH.
