Brussels Sprout Seeds - Long Island Improved Brussels Sprouts
Seed Count: 300 Seeds
Maturity: Approximately 100 Days from Planting
Growth Habit: Compact, upright plants producing abundant sprouts.
Sprout Characteristics: Uniform 1.5-inch sprouts with enhanced sweetness after frost.
Yield: 50-100 sprouts per plant per season.
Flavor Profile: Rich and deep, with intensified sweetness post-frost.
Plant Type: Heirloom, open-pollinated, non-GMO variety.
Growing Conditions: Thrives in full sun with well-draining, fertile soil and consistent moisture.
History & Heritage:
The Long Island Improved Brussels Sprouts is a classic heirloom variety that has been a staple in gardens for generations. Renowned for its resilience, compact growth habit, and exceptional flavor, this variety evokes nostalgia for traditional gardening and old-fashioned flavors. Its reliable yields and enhanced sweetness after frost have cemented its reputation as a favorite among gardeners and chefs alike.
Culinary Versatility:
Long Island Improved Brussels Sprouts are celebrated for their rich flavor and tender texture, especially after being kissed by frost. Perfect for roasting, steaming, or sautéing, these sprouts pair beautifully with savory herbs and spices. They are a delightful addition to casseroles, stir-fries, and holiday feasts. Their natural sweetness also makes them a great choice for side dishes, salads, or even pickling.
Planting & Growth Tips:
Growing Long Island Improved Brussels Sprouts is straightforward and rewarding, offering consistent yields of delicious sprouts. Follow these tips for successful cultivation:
- Planting: Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost for spring planting, or sow directly in late summer for a fall harvest. Transplant seedlings into the garden when they are 4-6 weeks old, spacing plants 18-24 inches apart in rows spaced 30-36 inches apart.
- Soil: Use fertile, well-draining soil enriched with compost or organic matter. Maintain a pH between 6.0-7.5 for optimal growth.
- Sunlight: Provide full sun exposure to encourage vigorous growth and high yields.
- Watering: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, especially during sprout development. Mulching around the plants helps retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
- Care: This compact and hardy variety thrives in cooler weather and improves in flavor after frost. Monitor for common pests like cabbage worms and aphids, and use organic pest control methods as needed. Remove yellowing leaves from the base of the plant as the sprouts mature to promote airflow and reduce disease risks.
- Harvesting: Pick sprouts when they are firm, compact, and reach 1.5 inches in diameter. Begin harvesting from the bottom of the stalk, working upward as the sprouts mature. The sweetest and most flavorful sprouts are harvested after a frost.
Why Grow Long Island Improved Brussels Sprouts?
Long Island Improved Brussels Sprouts deliver a perfect combination of heritage, flavor, and reliability. Their compact growth habit makes them ideal for gardens of all sizes, while their frost-enhanced sweetness elevates any dish. Whether enjoyed fresh, roasted, or in hearty holiday meals, this heirloom variety offers the nostalgic taste of tradition and a bountiful harvest of delicious sprouts. Add Long Island Improved Brussels Sprouts to your garden for a dependable crop with timeless flavor.
Brussels Sprout Seeds - Long Island Improved Brussels Sprouts is backordered and will ship as soon as it is back in stock.