When to Harvest Brussels Sprouts: From the Bottom Up
When to harvest Brussels sprouts depends on where each sprout sits on the stalk. Sprouts form in the leaf axils plus mature from the base upward. Pick the lowest ones first once they are firm, deep green plus about 1 to 1½ inches across. Then work up the stalk as the rest size up.
The short answer
Iowa State University Extension advises harvesting the buds from the base of the plant when they are 1 to 1½ inches in diameter. Continue harvesting higher sprouts as they mature. University of Maryland Extension adds that ready sprouts are hard, compact plus deep green. Harvest before the leaves turn yellow.
Why do sprouts mature from the bottom?
The sprouts form where leaves join the stem. University of Minnesota Extension notes a small sprout develops at each leaf joint, beginning with the lowest leaves plus continuing up the stalk. University of Illinois Extension notes sprouts are produced in the leaf axils, starting at the base of the stem plus working upward.
Brussels sprouts are a long season crop in the cabbage family. University of Maryland Extension lists 80 to 100 days to maturity from transplant. Plants are tall, sometimes 2 to 3 feet, plus erect.
| Step | Sign | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Check the lowest sprouts | Firm plus deep green | Lowest sprouts mature first |
| Measure size | 1 to 1½ inches across | Sprouts can reach 2 inches |
| Pick | Sprout snaps cleanly | Twist or snap at the stalk |
| Remove lower leaves | Leaves below picked sprouts | Leave upper leaves intact |
| Top the plant | Lowest sprouts about 1 inch | Cut 1 to 2 inches off the top |
| End of season | Mid twenties °F | Cut the whole stalk |
Source: Iowa State University Extension plus University of Maryland Extension plus University of Minnesota Extension.
What size should sprouts be?
About 1 to 1½ inches across. Iowa State University Extension plus University of Maryland Extension both give that range. University of Minnesota Extension notes sprouts can reach two inches in diameter, but gardeners often pick them smaller.
Firmness counts as much as size. University of Illinois Extension notes sprouts may be picked or cut off the stem when they are firm plus about one inch in size.
How should sprouts be picked?
University of Maryland Extension advises twisting or snapping sprouts off at the stalk. University of Illinois Extension notes the lowermost leaves should be removed when the sprouts are harvested, if they are not gone already. Several large, fully expanded upper leaves should stay on top to feed the plant.
Topping hurries the last sprouts. University of Minnesota Extension notes that once the lowest sprouts are an inch across, cutting 1 to 2 inches off the top of the stalk makes the upper sprouts enlarge.
How to: step by step
- Begin with the lowest sprouts on the stalk.
- Pick sprouts that are firm plus 1 to 1½ inches across.
- Twist or snap each sprout off at the stalk.
- Strip lower leaves as you harvest.
- Top the stalk once the lowest sprouts reach an inch.
- Cut whole stalks when temperatures fall to the mid twenties.
Troubleshooting
Loose, open sprouts: hot, dry weather during maturity. Water through summer heat, since plants need ample soil moisture.
Upper sprouts stay small: the growing point is still active. Top the plant about 3 weeks before harvest.
Yellow leaves around sprouts: harvest left too late. Pick before the leaves yellow.
For related reading see when to harvest outdoor cannabis, frost damage on cannabis plus cannabis leaf anatomy. Kind Seed Co also stocks cannabis seeds.
Sources
- When should I harvest Brussels sprouts, Iowa State University Extension
- Growing Brussels sprouts in home gardens, University of Minnesota Extension
- Brussels sprouts, home vegetable gardening, University of Illinois Extension
- Growing Brussels sprouts in a home garden, University of Maryland Extension
FAQ
How long do Brussels sprouts take?
University of Maryland Extension lists 80 to 100 days to maturity from transplant. Set transplants out 90 to 100 days before the first frost date, plus add 20 days if direct seeding. University of Illinois Extension notes newer hybrids have greatly reduced the long growing period this crop once needed.
Can Brussels sprouts handle frost?
Yes. University of Maryland Extension rates them hardy, able to withstand heavy frosts in spring plus fall. University of Minnesota Extension notes they can stay in the garden as long as temperatures remain above 20°F. University of Illinois Extension notes sprouts grow most readily in cool or even lightly frosty weather.
Should the top be cut off?
It can help. University of Illinois Extension notes plants may be topped about 3 weeks before harvest to speed sprout development on the lower stem. University of Minnesota Extension advises removing 1 to 2 inches from the top once the lowest sprouts are an inch across. This makes the upper sprouts enlarge.
How do I store Brussels sprouts?
Store stalks or sprouts cold. University of Minnesota Extension notes that once temperatures reach the mid twenties, gardeners can cut plants at the soil surface plus hang the stalks upright in a cool cellar. Harvest sprouts from the stalks over the next few weeks. University of Maryland Extension advises 32°F plus 95% relative humidity.
How far apart should plants be spaced?
Give them room. University of Maryland Extension advises 18 to 24 inches in the row with 30 to 36 inches between rows. University of Illinois Extension suggests 24 to 36 inches in the row, or 24 inches in all directions in beds. Plants need full sun of at least 6 hours a day.
