Brussels Sprout | Catskill

Grow firm, sweet, extra-large green sprouts with Catskill Brussels Sprouts, a classic heirloom variety prized for its compact growth, reliable yields, and excellent flavour. Also known as Long Island Improved Catskill, this variety produces sturdy plants approximately 60 cm (24 inches) tall, with stalks bearing numerous tender, tightly packed sprouts measuring approximately 4–5 cm (1½–2 inches) across.

Catskill Brussels Sprouts develop a rich, slightly nutty flavour that becomes especially delicious during cool autumn weather. Exposure to light frost can further enhance their natural sweetness, making this variety an excellent choice for Canadian gardeners planning a late-season harvest.

These productive plants are well suited to traditional vegetable gardens, raised beds, and smaller growing spaces. Start seeds indoors in spring to provide enough time for the plants to mature before the arrival of colder autumn temperatures.

Why Grow Catskill Brussels Sprouts?

• Classic heirloom variety producing generous yields of firm, compact, dark green sprouts
• Produces large sprouts approximately 4–5 cm (1½–2 inches) across
• Sturdy, compact plants reaching approximately 60 cm (24 inches) tall
• Rich, sweet, slightly nutty flavour that improves during cool autumn weather
• Excellent cold tolerance, making it ideal for autumn harvesting in Canada
• Approximately 90–100 days to maturity from transplanting
• Grows best in full sun and fertile, well-drained soil
• Open-pollinated heirloom variety
• Approximately 50–60 seeds per packet

How to Grow Catskill Brussels Sprouts from Seed

Start Brussels sprouts seeds indoors approximately 4–6 weeks before your intended outdoor transplanting date. Direct sowing is also possible in regions with sufficiently long growing seasons, although starting indoors is generally recommended for Canadian gardens.

Sow seeds approximately 6 mm (¼ inch) deep in a clean, well-draining seed-starting mix. Keep the growing medium consistently moist and maintain temperatures around 18–21°C (65–70°F) during germination.

Seeds typically germinate within 5–10 days under favourable conditions. Once seedlings emerge, provide approximately 14–16 hours of light daily to encourage strong, compact growth.

Gradually harden off seedlings over 7–10 days before transplanting outdoors. Space plants approximately 45–60 cm (18–24 inches) apart, with rows approximately 75–90 cm (30–36 inches) apart. Choose a sunny location with fertile, well-drained soil enriched with organic matter.

Water deeply and consistently throughout the growing season, particularly as sprouts begin developing along the stalk. Remove yellowing or damaged lower leaves as needed, but avoid removing excessive healthy foliage.

To encourage existing sprouts to mature before the end of the growing season, gardeners may optionally remove the top growing tip approximately 4–6 weeks before the intended final harvest, once numerous sprouts have formed.

Growing Brussels Sprouts in Canada

Catskill Brussels Sprouts are particularly well suited to Canadian gardens where cool autumn temperatures provide favourable conditions for sprout development and harvesting.

Because Brussels sprouts require a relatively long growing season, begin seeds early enough to allow plants to develop strong stalks and mature sprouts before severe winter weather arrives.

Established plants tolerate light frost, and exposure to cool temperatures can improve the flavour of mature sprouts. However, prolonged severe freezing may eventually damage plants and reduce harvest quality.

Apply organic mulch around established plants to conserve soil moisture, moderate soil temperatures, and reduce weed competition during the summer months.

For detailed instructions covering seed starting, transplanting, spacing, watering, fertilizing, harvesting, and pest management, download our How to Grow Brussels Sprouts in Canada | Complete Growing Guide.

Catskill Brussels Sprouts Growing Information

Feature	Detail
Botanical Name	Brassica oleracea var. gemmifera
Common Name	Brussels Sprouts (Catskill)
Plant Type	Cool-season biennial grown as an annual vegetable
Sun Requirements	Full sun; approximately 6–8 hours daily
Days to Maturity	Approximately 90–100 days from transplanting
Seed Count	Approximately 50–60 seeds per packet
Pollination Type	Open-pollinated heirloom variety
Best Uses	Roasting, sautéing, steaming, freezing, and autumn cooking

Grow Your Own Catskill Brussels Sprouts

Enjoy the satisfaction of harvesting firm, flavourful Brussels sprouts straight from your garden during the cool autumn months. With their compact growth habit, generous yields, and delicious flavour, Catskill Brussels Sprouts are an excellent addition to Canadian vegetable gardens.

Start your Catskill Brussels Sprouts from seed this season and look forward to a rewarding harvest of fresh, homegrown sprouts.