Sasha CampbellIf you’re thinking of adding Brussels sprouts to the garden this year, you might be wondering if any plants make good companions.
Growing certain plants together with Brussels sprouts can help maximize crop yields, among other benefits.
In this post, we will discuss some of the best and worst companions for Brussels sprouts. We will also share a few tips on how to care for your garden.
Good Companion Plants for Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts are a cool-season crop that is best transplanted in early spring or late summer.
Since they’re a member of the cabbage family, you can plant them close to other Brassica vegetables. This includes broccoli, cauliflower, and kale.
These crops have similar growing requirements, so there is no need to have multiple gardens. However, some farmers refrain from planting them together, as most require the same nutrients and growing conditions, which can lead to them competing with one another.
Marigolds are also great companions for Brussels sprouts, as they help deter pests while enriching the soil. Basil is also a good fit, as it repels flies and mosquitoes.
Below is a comprehensive list of plants that pair well with Brussels sprouts.
Some of these plants attract beneficial insects, while others repel certain pests and diseases. Still, some add flavor to the sprouts.
- Radish
- Beets
- Garlic
- Chamomile
- Thyme
- Carrots
- Celery
- Basil
- Sage
- Geraniums
- Swiss chard
- Cilantro
- Spinach
- Nasturtiums
- Mint
- Peas
- Parsley
- Marigolds
- Onion
- Okra
What Not to Plant with Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts are wonderful plants that can thrive alongside others. Still, there are certain plants you should keep away from them.
Don’t plant tomatoes and Brussels sprouts together. Brassicas can slow down tomato growth. Additionally, avoid planting potatoes with them.
These are all bad companions for Brussels sprouts:
- Kohlrabi
- Tomatoes
- Potatoes
- Strawberries
- Eggplant
- Pole beans
- Peppers
Growing Brussels Sprouts
To grow this veggie from seeds, start by planting them in late summer or early fall.
The seeds should be planted about 1 ½ inches deep and about 3 inches apart. Once the seedlings have grown a few inches tall, you can transplant them into your garden.
It typically takes Brussels sprouts 80 to 100 days to reach maturity, so plan accordingly. Harvest once the heads are about 1 to 2 inches in diameter.
You can also plant them in pots, but ensure that the pot is at least 12 inches wide and has good drainage.
Garden Pests
Pests are something to be aware of. While they’re not as commonly attacked as other vegetables, they can still be a target for garden pests.
Some garden pests that can affect Brussels sprouts include cabbage worms, aphids, and flea beetles.
Cabbage worms are the most common of the three and can be controlled by handpicking or using organic pesticides. You can control aphids and flea beetles with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
Click here to read about natural pest control remedies for different garden pests.
Plant Diseases
A few diseases also affect Brussels sprouts, one of which is clubroot [1].
Clubroot is a fungal infection that can cause severe damage to the roots of plants in the cabbage family and related plants. The bad news is that you cannot treat it with natural fungicides. The best course of action is to remove the infected plants.
Another common disease is black rot, caused by bacteria and characterized by yellow to brown patches on leaves.
The best way to control it is to destroy infected crops. However, if the infection is not severe, you could try treating it with Arber Bio Fungicide.
Finally, white rust is a fungus that affects leaves, stems, and flowers, causing them to develop a white coating. You can control it by removing infected plant parts.
It is also essential to monitor your plants for any signs of infection.
Harvesting
The optimal time to harvest is when the buds are still small and tightly packed.
If you wait too long, the buds will start to open up and become less flavorful. Look for buds that are around 1 to 2 inches in diameter.
Cut them off the stalk with a sharp knife. Ensure you cut them as close to the stalk as possible to avoid damaging the plant.
Storing
After harvesting, fresh Brussels sprouts can be stored in the fridge for up to a week.
To store them, first pat them dry to remove excess moisture.
Next, please put them in a plastic bag and remove as much air as possible before sealing. Make sure to date the bag so you know how fresh it is.
If you need to store them for an extended period, you can freeze them.
Just blanch them in boiling water for two minutes before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will last in the freezer for up to 12 months.
Where to Buy Seeds
If you’re looking to acquire high-quality seeds, your best option is to visit a garden center or an online store.
There are many excellent options available, but we recommend checking out SeedsNow. Not only do they have a wide variety of organic seeds, but their seeds are 100% open-pollinated.
Takeaway
Companion plants are a great way to improve your garden.
Several plants make good companions for Brussels sprouts, so select the ones that work best for your garden. With the right mix, you can maximize your harvest and get the most from your garden.
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