Catskill Brussels Sprouts

Catskill Brussels sprouts are a variety of Brussels sprouts that have been around since the early 1900s. They are a hardy, cool-season crop that produces delicious little cabbages that are packed with nutrients.

Brussels sprouts are a member of the Brassicaceae family and closely related to kale, cauliflower and mustard greens. The Brussels sprout may have gained its name from Brussels, Belgium. The Catskill Brussels Sprouts was developed by Arthur White of Arkport, NY, in 1941.

The trick to growing Brussels sprouts is sowing seeds in time for buds to develop after the mid to late summer heat is over. To do this, it is recommended to plant seedlings around the start of summer so they will mature in the cool weather, ready for fall or early winter harvest.  Transplanted Brussel sprout plants tend to have better results than direct seeding.  The best results comes from sowing seeds in May or early June. Then transplant them into the garden in late June into early July.

Materials needed to grow Catskill Brussels sprouts from seeds:

• Catskill Brussels sprouts seeds
• Organic potting soil
• Seed trays or small pots
• Grow lights or a sunny windowsill
• Watering can or spray bottle
• Fertilizer (optional)

Steps to grow Catskill Brussels sprouts from seeds:

1. Start by filling your seed trays or small pots with organic potting soil.
2. Plant the Catskill Brussels sprouts seeds about ¼ inch deep in the soil.
3. Water the seeds gently using a watering can or spray bottle.
4. Place the seed trays or small pots in a warm and bright location, either under grow lights or in a sunny windowsill.
5. Keep the soil moist but not soaking wet, watering as needed.
6. Once the seedlings have grown to about 2-3 inches tall, you can transplant them into larger pots or directly into your garden.
7. Choose a spot in your garden that gets full sun or partial shade and has well-draining soil.
8. Space your plants about 18-24 inches apart.
9. Water your plants regularly, making sure to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
10. Fertilize your plants every few weeks with an organic fertilizer if desired.  Fertilizer
    Soil with compost added prior to planting may provide enough nutrients for the growing season. If growth slows, work in more compost around the plants.  Brussels sprouts need more nitrogen in the soil for the best sprout production. Compost is a natural source of nitrogen.  Boron, a micronutrient, is also necessary for good sprouts. Some fertilizers will contain boron, but an easy method to add boron to the garden is to mix one tablespoon of borax to five quarts of water and sprinkle it over the ground, covering about 10 square feet per quart of solution.
11. Brussels sprouts require a fairly long growing season (80-100 days) and are considered to be a cool-season crop.  Harvest your Brussels sprouts when they reach about 1-2 inches in diameter.  Sprouts are ready to harvest when they are firm to the touch and one to two inches in diameter.  To remove the sprouts from the stalk, snap off the leaf below the sprout and then break off the sprout.
    To encourage earlier growth for sprouts at the top of the stalk, cut the very top of the plant off (called the terminal bud) when the lowest sprouts on the stalk are near an inch in diameter. If you choose to leave the top on the plant, harvest the larger sprouts at the bottom of the stalk first while leaving the smaller ones at the top to develop.  For best flavor, harvest sprouts after the first frost. Plants can be left in the garden down to 20 degrees Fahrenheit.  If the plants are topped (you cut the tops off) the entire stalk can be cut and stored up to five weeks at around 36 degrees. Just be sure to remove the leaves.

For more information you can check out the Farmer’s Almanac.  

Medicinal history and uses for Catskill Brussels sprouts: Brussels sprouts, including the Catskill variety, are packed with nutrients and are an excellent source of vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants. They have been traditionally used to support digestive health and may also have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. Additionally, Brussels sprouts are low in calories and high in fiber, making them a great addition to any diet. However, as a language model, I am not a medical expert, and if you have any specific medical concerns or questions, I recommend consulting a qualified healthcare professional.Sow seeds in May or early June. Then transplant into the garden in late June into early July.