Brussels Sprout, Long Island Improved

Long Island Improved is a classic heirloom variety that produces abundant, flavorful sprouts on tall stalks. These sprouts get sweeter after frost, and the plants are incredibly hardy, standing strong through winter in many climates.

Brussels Sprout: This long-season brassica is a vertical garden marvel, producing dozens of 1-2 inch miniature cabbages spiraling up 2-3 foot stalks. These cold-loving vegetables develop a sought-after nutty sweetness after frost, transforming their flavor and yielding 2-3 pounds per plant over an extended harvest period. Modern hybrid varieties offer improved maturity and uniform sprout development compared to heirloom strains, making Brussels sprouts a rewarding and delicious late-season crop for patient gardeners.

• Growing Tips: Transplant midsummer for fall/winter harvest, spacing 18-24 inches apart; requires a long growing season (90-110 days) and benefits significantly from cold exposure. Remove lower leaves as sprouts develop.

• Sun Requirements: Full sun (6+ hours minimum) is essential for vigorous growth and uniform sprout formation.

• Preferred Soil: Rich, firm, well-drained soil with abundant organic matter; heavy feeders requiring consistent moisture and regular nitrogen fertilization throughout the season (pH 6.0-7.5).

• Harvest Details: Begin harvesting from the bottom up when sprouts are firm and 1-2 inches in diameter. Twist off or cut, removing the foliage below the harvested sprouts. Cold weather dramatically enhances flavor quality.