What to Plant Next to Brussels Sprouts? 5 Unique Types & Best Care Tips

When it comes to planting Brussels sprouts, choosing the right companion plants can make all the difference in the success of your garden. Companion planting is the practice of planting different crops near each other to benefit from their natural properties.

Some plants can help repel pests, while others can provide necessary nutrients or shade. Choosing the right plants to plant next to Brussels sprouts can help them thrive and produce a bountiful harvest.

Brussels sprouts are a cool-season crop that grows best in temperatures between 60 and 65 degrees Fahrenheit. They require well-draining soil and need to be watered regularly.

Brussels sprouts are a member of the Brassica family, which includes other vegetables like cabbage, broccoli, and kale. They are a nutritious and delicious addition to any garden, but they can be susceptible to pests and diseases if not properly cared for.

When planting Brussels sprouts, it’s important to choose the right location. They need full sun and well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Brussels sprouts should be planted in the early spring or late summer, depending on your climate. They should be spaced about 18 to 24 inches apart to allow for proper growth.

Key Takeaways

• Companion planting can benefit Brussels sprouts by repelling pests and providing necessary nutrients.
• Brussels sprouts are a cool-season crop that requires well-draining soil and regular watering.
• When planting Brussels sprouts, choose a location with full sun and well-draining soil, and space them about 18 to 24 inches apart.

Related posts:

• What to Plant in October in California?
• What to Plant After Potatoes
• What Temperature is Too Cold for an Aloe Plant?

Understanding Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts, a member of the Brassica oleracea family, are a nutritious and delicious vegetable that can be grown in most home gardens. Here are some important things to know about Brussels sprouts.

Brussels Sprouts Varieties

There are several varieties of Brussels sprouts, each with their own unique characteristics. Some popular varieties include:

Variety	Characteristics
Long Island Improved	Produces large, flavorful sprouts
Jade Cross	Resistant to disease and pests
Diablo	Produces red-tinged sprouts
Rubine	Produces deep red sprouts

Brussels Sprouts Nutritional Value

Brussels sprouts are a highly nutritious vegetable that are packed with vitamins and minerals. One cup of cooked Brussels sprouts contains:

• 56 calories
• 4 grams of protein
• 4 grams of fiber
• 274% of the daily recommended intake of vitamin K
• 162% of the daily recommended intake of vitamin C
• 24% of the daily recommended intake of vitamin A
• 14% of the daily recommended intake of folate

In addition to being low in calories and high in nutrients, Brussels sprouts are also a good source of antioxidants, which can help protect the body against damage from free radicals.

Planting Brussels Sprouts

When it comes to planting Brussels sprouts, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure a successful harvest. This section will cover the key considerations for planting Brussels sprouts, including choosing the right site, preparing the soil, and planting seeds and seedlings.

1. Choosing the Right Site

Brussels sprouts require a planting site that receives full sun and has well-draining soil. They also require a long growing season, so it’s important to choose a site that will provide them with enough time to mature before the first fall frost date.

In addition, Brussels sprouts prefer cooler temperatures, so planting them in a location that is shaded during the hottest parts of the day can help ensure their success.

2. Preparing the Soil

Before planting Brussels sprouts, it’s important to prepare the soil properly. This can include adding compost or other organic matter to improve soil fertility and structure.

Brussels sprouts prefer a slightly acidic soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.8, so it may be necessary to adjust the soil pH if it is outside of this range. It’s also important to ensure that the soil is well-draining, as Brussels sprouts do not tolerate waterlogged soil.

3. Planting Seeds and Seedlings

Brussels sprouts can be started from seeds or seedlings. If starting from seeds, they should be started indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost date. Once the seedlings have developed their first true leaves, they can be transplanted into the garden.

If planting seedlings, they should be planted in the garden after the last expected frost date. When planting Brussels sprouts, it’s important to space them properly to allow for adequate air circulation and to prevent overcrowding.

Brussels sprouts should be spaced 18-24 inches apart in rows that are 2-3 feet apart. They should be planted at a depth of 1/4 to 1/2 inch and watered thoroughly after planting. It’s also important to keep the soil consistently moist throughout the growing season.

By following these guidelines for planting Brussels sprouts, gardeners can ensure a successful harvest of this nutritious and delicious vegetable.

Caring for Brussels Sprouts

1. Watering and Fertilizing

Brussels sprouts require consistent moisture throughout the growing season, so they should be watered regularly. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged, to prevent root rot.

It is recommended to water the plants deeply once a week, providing 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week. Mulching around the plants can help retain moisture in the soil.

Brussels sprouts require nitrogen to grow, so it is important to fertilize them regularly. Nitrogen-rich fertilizers, such as compost or blood meal, can be applied every few weeks during the growing season to promote healthy growth.

2. Dealing with Pests and Diseases

Brussels sprouts are susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases, including aphids, cabbage worms, and clubroot. To prevent these problems, it is important to keep the plants healthy and well-fed. Regularly inspect the plants for signs of damage and treat any problems promptly.

One effective way to prevent pests and diseases is to rotate crops. Do not plant Brussels sprouts in the same location every year. Instead, rotate them with other crops, such as tomatoes or beans, to reduce the risk of soil-borne diseases.

3. Harvesting and Storing

Brussels sprouts are ready to harvest when the sprouts are firm and about 1 to 2 inches in diameter. Harvesting should be done from the bottom of the plant, working upward. Once the sprouts have been harvested, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Brussels sprouts can also be frozen for long-term storage. To freeze, blanch the sprouts for 3 to 5 minutes, then cool them in ice water. Once cooled, drain the sprouts and pack them in freezer bags.

Companion Planting with Brussels Sprouts

When it comes to companion planting with Brussels sprouts, there are both beneficial companion plants and detrimental plants to avoid. Here are some options to consider:

Beneficial Companion Plants

1. Peas and Beans: Peas and beans are great companion plants for Brussels sprouts. They help fix nitrogen in the soil, which is needed for healthy plant growth.
2. Marigolds: Marigolds are known for their ability to repel harmful insects such as nematodes, whiteflies, and aphids. They also attract beneficial insects like ladybugs and parasitic wasps that prey on harmful insects.
3. Celery and Carrots: These two plants are good companion crops for Brussels sprouts because they help repel pests such as aphids, spider mites, and carrot rust flies.
4. Onions and Garlic: Onions and garlic are members of the Allium family and are good companion plants for many crops including Brussels sprouts. They can help repel aphids and beetles that can harm the plants.
5. Mint, Sage, Chamomile, and Rosemary: These herbs are also good companion plants for Brussels sprouts. They help repel pests and attract beneficial insects.

Detrimental Plants to Avoid

1. Potatoes and Tomatoes: These plants are members of the nightshade family and should not be planted near Brussels sprouts. They attract the same pests and diseases that can harm Brussels sprouts.
2. Beets and Lettuce: These plants can attract pests like leaf miners and aphids that can harm Brussels sprouts.
3. Nasturtiums, Radishes, and Spinach: These plants can attract flea beetles that can harm Brussels sprouts.
4. Thyme and Mustard Greens: These plants can attract cabbage loopers and other pests that can harm Brussels sprouts.
5. Bush Beans and Squash: These plants have extensive root systems that can compete with Brussels sprouts for nutrients and water. Squash bugs can also harm Brussels sprouts.

Common Brussels Sprouts Pests and Diseases

Brussels sprouts are a popular cool-season crop that can be grown in most regions. However, they are susceptible to a number of pests and diseases that can damage or even kill the plants. In this section, we will discuss some of the most common pests and diseases that affect Brussels sprouts and how to identify and control them.

1. Identifying Common Pests

Brussels sprouts can be attacked by a variety of pests, including aphids, beetles, loopers, flea beetles, whiteflies, cabbage loopers, and nematodes. These pests can cause damage to the leaves, stems, and roots of the plant, and can reduce the yield of the crop.

Some of the most common signs of a pest infestation include holes in the leaves, yellowing or wilting of the plant, and stunted growth.To control pests, it is important to identify the specific type of pest that is affecting the plant.

Row covers can be used to protect the plants from cutworms and other flying insects, while ladybugs and parasitic wasps can be used to control aphids and other small insects. Handpicking larger insects such as Japanese beetles can also be effective.

2. Recognizing Common Diseases

In addition to pests, Brussels sprouts can also be affected by a number of diseases, including clubroot, black rot, and downy mildew. These diseases can cause wilting, yellowing, and stunted growth of the plant, and can lead to reduced yields or even death of the plant.

One of the most common signs of a disease infection is the appearance of black or brown spots on the leaves or stems of the plant. Clubroot can cause the roots to become swollen and misshapen, while black rot can cause the leaves to turn black and wilt. Downy mildew can cause a white powdery coating to appear on the leaves.

3. Organic Pest and Disease Control

There are a number of organic methods that can be used to control pests and diseases on Brussels sprouts. One of the most effective methods is to use companion planting.

Sage, chamomile, garlic, marigold, dill, onions, basil, celery, mint, peas, carrots, rosemary, and beans are all good companion plants for Brussels sprouts, as they can help to repel pests and attract beneficial insects.

Another effective method is to use organic pesticides and fungicides, such as neem oil, pyrethrin, and copper sulfate. These products can be applied directly to the plant to control pests and diseases, without harming the environment or the beneficial insects that live in the garden.

Growing Brussels Sprouts in Pots

Growing Brussels sprouts in pots can be a great option for those with limited garden space or who want to grow this vegetable indoors. When growing Brussels sprouts in pots, it is important to choose the right pot and provide proper care to ensure a healthy and successful harvest.

Choosing the Right Pot

When choosing a pot for Brussels sprouts, it is important to select one that is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system. A pot that is at least 18 inches deep and 18 inches wide should be sufficient for growing one Brussels sprout plant.

If you want to grow multiple plants, choose a larger pot or consider using several smaller pots. It is also important to choose a pot that has drainage holes to prevent water from accumulating in the soil and causing root rot. Additionally, using a pot with a saucer can help catch excess water and prevent it from damaging surfaces.

Caring for Potted Brussels Sprouts

When growing Brussels sprouts in pots, it is important to provide the plant with the right environment to thrive. Here are some tips for caring for potted Brussels sprouts:

• Soil: Use a high-quality potting soil that is rich in organic matter to provide the plant with the nutrients it needs to grow. Mix in some compost or well-rotted manure to further enrich the soil.
• Water: Brussels sprouts need consistent moisture, so water the plant regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Check the soil moisture level frequently, especially during hot or dry weather.
• Fertilizer: Apply a balanced fertilizer to the soil once a month to provide the plant with additional nutrients. Alternatively, use a slow-release fertilizer at the beginning of the growing season.
• Sunlight: Brussels sprouts need at least six hours of sunlight per day to grow properly. Place your pot in a sunny location or use grow lights if growing indoors.
• Temperature: Brussels sprouts prefer cool temperatures between 60-65°F (15-18°C), so keep the pot in a cool location or use shade cloth to protect the plant from excessive heat.
• Pests and Diseases: Watch out for common pests like aphids and cabbage loopers, and treat them promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Additionally, keep an eye out for diseases like clubroot and powdery mildew, and take steps to prevent their spread.

Some recommended varieties of Brussels sprouts for container gardening include Jade Cross and Long Island Improved. With the right pot and proper care, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of Brussels sprouts even in a small space.

Conclusion

Gardeners looking to maximize their Brussels sprouts’ growth and minimize pest infestations should consider planting compatible plants nearby. The cabbage family, including kale, cauliflower, kohlrabi, and broccoli, are good companion plants for Brussels sprouts, as they have similar maintenance needs and can help deter pests.

Additionally, trap crops such as eggplant can be planted next to Brussels sprouts to attract pests away from the sprouts. Cool-weather crops such as carrots and celery can also be planted nearby, as they thrive in similar conditions and can help improve soil quality.

It’s important to note that while it is technically possible to plant cucumbers next to Brussels sprouts, it is not recommended as they have different maintenance needs and can attract pests that may harm the sprouts.

Frequently Asked Questions