How to grow Brussels Sprout in the UK
Brassica oleracea
Brussels Sprout (Brassica oleracea) is a vegetable that grows well in UK gardens. Long season; needs firm soil and patience. Pigeon-proof with netting all winter. This guide covers when and how to sow Brussels Sprout, the soil and position it likes, watering and feeding, companion planting, and when to harvest.
When to sow & grow Brussels Sprout
Sowing and harvest window through the year (UK):
Jan Harvest | Feb Harvest | Mar Sow | Apr | May | Jun Plant | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct Harvest | Nov Harvest | Dec Harvest |
Soil, position & care
- Soil
- Very firm, fertile soil — lime if acid
- Soil pH
- 6.5–7.5
- Position
- Open, sunny site
- Sowing depth
- 1.5 cm
- Spacing
- 60–75 cm apart
- Sowing
- Sow Mar–Apr; plant firmly — loose soil gives blown sprouts
- Growing
- Stake tall plants on exposed sites
- Harvest & upkeep
- Pick from the bottom up after the first frosts
- Watch for
- Cabbage white caterpillars, club root, whitefly, pigeons
Companion planting for Brussels Sprout
Grows well with:
Keep apart from:
Add Brussels Sprout to your free 12-month plan and get watering & sowing reminders — no sign-up needed.
Brussels Sprout FAQs
When should I sow Brussels Sprout in the UK?
In the UK, sow Brussels Sprout in March. Sowing across these months gives the plant the right soil temperature and day length to establish well.
What grows well with Brussels Sprout?
Brussels Sprout grows well alongside Beetroot, Celery, Dill, French Marigold, Pot Marigold, Mint. Good companions can deter pests, attract pollinators or make better use of space.
What should you not plant near Brussels Sprout?
Keep Brussels Sprout away from Strawberry, Beef Tomato, Cherry Tomato, which can compete with it or share pests and diseases.
How much sun does Brussels Sprout need?
Brussels Sprout prefers full sun (6+ hrs direct).
When is Brussels Sprout ready to harvest?
Brussels Sprout is typically ready to harvest in January, February, October, November, December in the UK.
Is Brussels Sprout easy to grow?
Challenging. Long season; needs firm soil and patience. Pigeon-proof with netting all winter.