Brussels sprouts: Spacing, Yield & Planting Dates
Plant count & yield calculator
Pre-filled for this crop — adjust bed size or pick a different vegetable.
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Seed starting dates
Pre-filled last frost — change the date to rebuild the full crop schedule. For Brussels sprouts with this frost date : start indoors ~Mar 11, transplant ~Apr 8 .
Pick a last frost date for the schedule.
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Assumptions and formulas will appear here once you calculate.
About brussels sprouts
Brussels sprouts develop dozens of miniature cabbage heads along a tall stalk, sweetening dramatically after fall frost for roasting and gratins.
Spacing & yield
Brussels sprouts wants 18×30 inches and about 2 lb per plant at ~100 days to maturity.
Growing tips
- Top the plant (remove growing tip) 4 weeks before expected harvest to push energy into sprout development.
- Remove lower yellowing leaves throughout the season to improve air circulation.
- A light frost sweetens sprouts considerably — time your crop for fall harvest.
- Stake tall plants in windy areas to prevent toppling under the weight of developing sprouts.
Common mistakes
- Planting too late for the sprouts to size up before hard freeze.
- Under-spacing below 18 inches in-row, producing tiny underdeveloped buttons.
- Harvesting bottom sprouts too early before they firm up to marble-plus size.
Harvest & storage
Twist off sprouts from the bottom up when firm and 1-2 inches diameter, around 100 days from transplant.
Refrigerate on the stalk for longest life (3-4 weeks) or remove and store in a bag for 1-2 weeks.
Companion planting
Good neighbors for brussels sprouts: dill, onions, celery, potatoes, thyme. Avoid planting beside: strawberries, tomatoes, pole beans.
Planting calendar
Start indoors about 5 weeks before last frost, then transplant 1 weeks before frost. Use the seed-starting calculator above with your real county frost date — the April 15 default is only a worked example (zone 6 style).
Estimates only — consult your local extension office for advice specific to your land and animals.
Frequently asked questions
- How much space do Brussels sprouts need?
- Plant 18 inches apart in rows 30 inches apart — these tall plants need adequate light and airflow.
- How much do Brussels sprouts produce per plant?
- Expect about 2 lb of sprouts per stalk, harvested over 4-6 weeks from the bottom up.
- How long do Brussels sprouts take to grow?
- About 100 days from transplant; plan for fall harvest since frost improves flavor significantly.