If you’re planning your Georgia garden, knowing when to plant brussel sprouts in georgia is the first step to a successful harvest. This cool-season crop thrives with a long growing period and a kiss of frost, so timing is everything for our variable climate.
Georgia’s range from the cooler mountains to the warmer coastal plains means planting dates shift. Getting it right ensures your plants mature during the cool fall weather they love, resulting in those sweet, tightly formed sprouts we all enjoy.
When to Plant Brussel Sprouts in Georgia
For most of Georgia, the optimal planting time is during late summer for a fall harvest. This schedule lets the plants grow through the warm days of early fall and mature during the cooler, even frosty, days of late fall and winter. The cold actually improves their flavor.
Recommended Planting Dates by Region
- North Georgia (Mountain & Upper Piedmont): Plant transplants outdoors from July 20th to August 10th. The earlier fall frosts here mean you need a head start.
- Middle & South Georgia (Lower Piedmont & Coastal Plain): Plant transplants outdoors from August 1st to August 25th. You can often succession plant for a harvest that lasts into the new year.
These dates are for setting out young plants, or “transplants.” Because brussel sprouts need a long season (often 90-100 days to harvest), starting seeds directly in the garden is usually to late. You’ll want to start seeds indoors much earlier.
Starting Seeds Indoors
To have transplants ready for those key outdoor dates, you need to plan backwards. Count back about 4 to 6 weeks from your target outdoor planting date.
- For North GA, start seeds indoors around mid-June to early July.
- For Middle/South GA, start seeds indoors around late June to mid-July.
Sow seeds in trays, keep them moist, and provide plenty of light. They’ll be ready to harden off and transplant on schedule.
Understanding Brussel Sprouts and Cold
This is a crucial point. Brussel sprouts are biennials grown as annuals. They grow best when temperatures are between 60°F and 70°F. They can survive frosts and even temps down into the 20s, which makes them perfect for Georgia fall gardens. The cold triggers a process that converts starches to sugars, making the sprouts taste sweeter after a frost.
Choosing the Right Variety for Georgia
Selecting a variety suited to your region and with a good disease resistance is key. Look for hybrids that handle heat stress in the early stages well.
- ‘Long Island Improved’: A reliable heirloom that produces well in cooler fall weather.
- ‘Jade Cross’: A compact, hybrid variety that’s disease-resistant and matures earlier, which is a good option for beginners.
- ‘Churchill’: Another early-maturing hybrid (around 90 days) that performs consistently in variable conditions.
- ‘Diablo’: Known for its excellent yield and tolerance of less-than-ideal conditions.
Step-by-Step Planting and Care Guide
1. Site Selection and Soil Prep
Choose a location that gets full sun (at least 6 hours). The soil should be fertile, well-draining, and rich in organic matter. A few weeks before planting, work in several inches of compost or well-rotted manure. Aim for a soil pH between 6.0 and 7.0. A soil test from your local UGA extension office is always a smart move.
2. Transplanting Seedlings
- Harden Off: Acclimate indoor-started plants to outdoor conditions over 7-10 days.
- Spacing: Plant them deep, up to their first set of leaves, to encourage a strong stem. Space plants 18 to 24 inches apart in rows 30 inches apart. They get big!
- Water In: Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil.
3. Ongoing Care and Maintenance
Watering
Provide 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week. Consistent moisture is vital, especially during head formation and in the heat of late summer. Drip irrigation or soaker hoses are ideal to keep leaves dry and prevent disease.
Fertilizing
Brussel sprouts are heavy feeders. At planting, use a balanced organic fertilizer. Side-dress with a nitrogen-rich fertilizer (like blood meal) about a month after transplanting and again when sprouts begin to form. Don’t overdo it late in the season, as this can cause loose sprouts.
Pest and Disease Management
Common pests in Georgia include imported cabbageworms, aphids, and harlequin bugs. Check plants regularly. Use floating row covers early on to prevent moths from laying eggs. For diseases like downy mildew or black rot, ensure good air circulation, avoid overhead watering, and rotate your crops each year.
4. Harvesting Your Sprouts
Harvest begins from the bottom of the stalk upward. Pick sprouts when they are firm, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Twist them off or use a sharp knife. A light frost or two will improve their flavor dramatically. For a single, large harvest, you can cut the entire stalk once the lower sprouts are mature.
Common Challenges and Solutions in Georgia
- Plants Bolt (Flower) Prematurely: This is often caused by planting too early in spring or by a sudden heat wave. Stick to the late summer planting schedule for a fall harvest to avoid this.
- Loose or “Blown” Sprouts: Usually caused by too much nitrogen late in the season, inconsistent watering, or not enough cold weather. Stick to your fertilizing schedule and be patient for cooler temps.
- Poor Yield: Ensure full sun, consistent water, and adequate spacing. Crowded plants won’t produce well.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I plant brussel sprouts in the spring in Georgia?
It’s generally not recommended. Spring-planted sprouts would mature in our intense summer heat, causing bitter, poorly formed sprouts or bolting. The fall planting schedule is vastly more succesful.
How long does it take to grow brussel sprouts?
Most varieties need 90 to 110 days from transplanting to first harvest. Check your seed packet for the “Days to Maturity” for your specific variety and plan your planting date backwards from your first expected fall frost.
Do brussel sprouts come back every year?
No, they are biennials but we grow them as annuals. They complete their life cycle (growth, sprout production, then flowering) in two seasons, but for the best harvest, we plant and harvest them within one year.
What are good companion plants for brussel sprouts?
Plant them with herbs like dill or mint to deter pests. Avoid planting them near other cabbages or strawberries. Good neighbors include beets, carrots, and onions.
Can I grow brussel sprouts in containers?
Yes, choose a large container (at least 12-15 gallons) for one plant, use high-quality potting mix, and be vigilant about watering and feeding. Compact varieties like ‘Jade Cross’ are best for this.
By following these guidelines for when to plant brussel sprouts in Georgia, you set the stage for a rewarding harvest. The key is working with the seasons, using the cooling fall weather to your advantage. With proper timing, a little preparation, and consistent care, you can enjoy a homegrown supply of this delicious, cold-season treat straight from your garden.