When To Plant Brussel Sprouts In Pa – Optimal Pennsylvania Planting Times

If you’re planning your Pennsylvania vegetable garden, knowing when to plant brussel sprouts in pa is the key to a successful harvest. Getting the timing right in our state’s varied climate makes all the difference between tender sprouts and a disappointing crop.

Brussel sprouts are a cool-season crop that thrives in Pennsylvania’s fall weather. They need a long growing season, often over 100 days from transplant to harvest. The trick is to time planting so the plants mature during cool, frosty autumn days, which improves their flavor. Let’s break down the optimal schedule for your region.

When to Plant Brussel Sprouts in PA

For most Pennsylvania gardeners, the best strategy is to start seeds indoors and then transplant the seedlings outside. Direct sowing in spring is rarely successful because the weather heats up to fast before plants establish.

Start Seeds Indoors

Begin your seeds inside about 4-6 weeks before your last expected spring frost date. This gives the seedlings a strong head start while outdoor conditions are still to chilly.

• Southeast PA (Philadelphia area): Start seeds indoors in late February to mid-March.
• Central PA (State College area): Start seeds indoors in mid to late March.
• Western/Northern PA (Pittsburgh & Erie area): Start seeds indoors in late March to early April.

Transplant Seedlings Outdoors

Transplant your young brussel sprout plants into the garden 2-3 weeks before your last frost date. The plants can handle a light frost, and this gets them settled in during cool weather. They should be about 4-6 inches tall with a few sets of true leaves.

• Southeast PA: Transplant in early to mid-April.
• Central PA: Transplant in late April to early May.
• Western/Northern PA: Transplant in early to mid-May.

Fall Crop Planting (Alternative Method)

You can also plant for a fall harvest. This is a great option if your spring was to busy. For a fall crop, you’ll need to count backwards from your first fall frost date.

1. Find your average first fall frost date.
2. Count backwards 85-100 days (check your seed packet for the specific ‘days to maturity’).
3. Start seeds indoors or in a shaded nursery bed at that time, usually in mid to late June for most of PA.
4. Transplant these seedlings into the garden in mid to late July, providing plenty of water during summer heat.

Using Frost Dates as Your Guide

Always confirm dates with your local frost averages. The last spring frost can vary from year to year. Your county’s Penn State Extension office is a fantastic resource for hyper-local planting advice.

Choosing the Right Varieties for Pennsylvania

Selecting a variety with a suitable days-to-maturity rating is crucial. Look for reliable performers that can handle our climate shifts.

• Early Maturing (~90 days): ‘Oliver’, ‘Churchill’. Good for areas with shorter seasons.
• Mid-Season (~100 days): ‘Jade Cross’, ‘Diablo’. Excellent all-purpose choices.
• Long Season (110+ days): ‘Long Island Improved’, ‘Gustus’. Needs an early start and patience, but produces heavily.

Step-by-Step Planting and Care

Once your timing is set, proper planting ensures healthy growth.

1. Site Selection and Soil Prep

Brussel sprouts need full sun—at least 6 hours daily. The soil should be fertile, well-draining, and rich in organic matter. Work in several inches of compost or aged manure before planting. They are heavy feeders, so a balanced organic fertilizer mixed in at planting is a good idea.

2. Transplanting Correctly

1. Harden off seedlings for 7-10 days before transplanting.
2. Space plants 18-24 inches apart in rows 30 inches apart. They get large!
3. Plant them slightly deeper than they were in their pots, up to their first set of leaves.
4. Water deeply immediately after planting.

3. Ongoing Maintenance

• Watering: Provide 1-1.5 inches of water per week. Consistent moisture is vital, especially during sprout formation.
• Fertilizing: Side-dress with a nitrogen-rich fertilizer when plants are about 12 inches tall, and again when sprouts begin to form.
• Mulching: Apply a 3-inch layer of straw or shredded leaves to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and keep roots cool.
• Pest Control: Watch for cabbage worms and aphids. Use row covers early in the season or inspect plants regularly.

4. Encouraging Sprout Development

To encourage larger, uniform sprouts, you can practice “topping” the plant. About 3-4 weeks before you plan to harvest, cut off the top growing tip of the plant. This directs all the plants energy into the existing sprouts, causing them to plump up faster.

Harvesting Your Pennsylvania Brussel Sprouts

Harvest typically begins in mid to late September and can continue through November, even after a few frosts. Frost actually sweetens the flavor. Start picking from the bottom of the stalk upward, as those sprouts mature first. Twist or snap them off gently. For a single harvest, you can cut the entire stalk at the base once the lower sprouts are about 1 inch in diameter.

Common Problems and Solutions

Even with perfect timing, issues can arise. Here’s how to handle common Pennsylvania growing challenges.

• Loose or “Blown” Sprouts: Caused by warm weather during development. Sticking to the planting schedule for fall maturity is the best prevention.
• Small Sprouts: Often due to overcrowding, poor soil fertility, or inconsistent watering. Give them space, feed them well, and keep the water steady.
• Excessive Pest Damage: Row covers are your best defense against cabbage moths. For aphids, a strong spray of water or insecticidal soap usually works.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can you plant brussel sprouts in the spring in Pennsylvania?
Yes, but you must start them very early indoors for transplanting. They must mature in cool fall weather for the best yield.

What is the best month to plant brussel sprouts in PA?
For spring planting, the best month to transplant seedlings is April in the southeast and May in the north/west. For a fall crop, start seeds in June.

How late can you plant brussel sprouts in Pennsylvania?
For a traditional harvest, don’t transplant later than early July. After that, the plants won’t have enough cool days to develop properly before a hard freeze.

Do brussel sprouts come back every year in PA?
No, they are biennials but are grown as annuals. They will not survive Pennsylvania winters to produce a second year.

Can brussel sprouts survive a frost in PA?
Absolutely. They are very cold-hardy. Light frosts improve flavor, and established plants can survive temperatures down into the 20s, especially with some protection like mulch.

By following these Pennsylvania-specific timing guidelines and care tips, you’ll be well on your way to harvesting a bounty of sweet, homegrown brussel sprouts from your own garden. The patience required for this long-season crop is always rewarded at the dinner table.