Brussels Sprout - Red Bull
A superb red variety, Brussels Sprout ‘Red Bull’ produces red sprouts about 1-2in big, that deepen in hue with the winter cold and retain their colour on cooking. Although yields are not as high as green varieties, the red buttons make up for it with their lovely nutty flavour. Makes an ornamental feature on the veg plot.
Height: 75cm (30in). Spread: 50cm (20in).
A superb red variety, Brussels Sprout ‘Red Bull’ produces red sprouts about 1-2in big, that deepen in hue with the winter cold and retain their colour on cooking. Although yields are not as high as green varieties, the red buttons make up for it with their lovely nutty flavour. Makes an ornamental feature on the veg plot.
Height: 75cm (30in). Spread: 50cm (20in).
A superb red variety, Brussels Sprout ‘Red Bull’ produces red sprouts about 1-2in big, that deepen in hue with the winter cold and retain their colour on cooking. Although yields are not as high as green varieties, the red buttons make up for it with their lovely nutty flavour. Makes an ornamental feature on the veg plot.
Height: 75cm (30in). Spread: 50cm (20in).
Sow Brussels Sprout seed indoors from February. Alternatively direct sow outdoors from March into a well prepared seedbed, for transplanting to their final positions later on. Sow at a depth of 13mm (½") and distance of 30cm (12") between rows.
Indoors, sow seed in 7.5cm (3") pots or trays of free-draining, seed sowing compost and cover with a 6mm (¼") layer of vermiculite. Place in a propagator or seal container inside a plastic bag at a temperature of 15C (60F) until germination which takes around 7 days. Once germinated, grow Brussels Sprouts on in cooler conditions until all risk of frost has passed and plants are large enough to be transplanted.
Gradually acclimatise them to outdoor conditions over 7 - 10 days before planting Brussels Sprout plants outdoors in firm, rich fertile, well drained soil in full sun. Prepare the soil in advance in early spring by adding plenty of well rotted farmyard manure to the soil to improve its structure and fertility. Plant brassicas at a distance of 60cm (24") apart and cover with a protective netting or fleece to prevent attack from birds and insects. Water the plants thoroughly after planting.
Water Brussels sprouts regularly and do not allow them to dry out as this may impair their development. Hoe between plants regularly to prevent weeds from establishing and bring insect larvae to the surface. Remove any yellowed or diseased leaves as they occur. Brussels Sprouts can be harvested from October to December but their flavour will be improved if they are left exposed to the first frosts. Culinary note: Brussels sprouts are suitable for freezing.
