Gardeners across the UK are receiving crucial last-minute advice to ensure their homegrown Brussels sprouts reach the Christmas dinner table in perfect condition. These festive vegetables, traditionally served with bacon, chestnuts or cranberries, require careful attention in their final growing weeks to avoid disappointment after months of cultivation.
RHS Expert Guidance for Sprout Success
The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) has issued specific recommendations for anyone cultivating their own Brussels sprouts. Their primary advice focuses on removing any yellowed leaves from Brussels sprouts and other brassica plants. This simple but vital step helps prevent the development of grey mould and brassica downy mildew, which could otherwise ruin the entire crop.
Another significant factor often overlooked by growers is wind protection. The RHS further advises: "Stake or earth up any Brussels sprouts stalks that look leggy and vulnerable to wind rock". Taking these preventative measures ensures the plants remain stable and healthy during winter weather conditions.
Harvesting Techniques for Sweeter Sprouts
When the time comes to harvest your Brussels sprouts, begin from the bottom of the stalk and work upwards. These vegetables can be harvested from autumn right through to spring, meaning you don't need to pick them all at once. Interestingly, Brussels sprouts actually become sweeter after exposure to frost, making them particularly delicious for your Christmas meal.
The recommended harvesting method involves snapping sprouts off with a sharp downward tug while ensuring you strip away the bottom leaves. During cold weather, you can simply pluck however many sprouts you need and leave the remainder on the plant until required. However, it's essential to gather sprouts before they begin to open or turn yellow for optimal flavour and texture.
Making the Most of Your Entire Crop
The usefulness of your Brussels sprout plant doesn't end with harvesting the sprouts themselves. You can also consume the leaves or sprout tops, which can be prepared similarly to spring greens, reducing waste and providing additional vegetables.
The RHS adds another valuable tip: "If you cut the whole stem when harvesting, you can either stand it in water for a few days or hang it up in a cool, frost-free garage or shed, then pick the sprouts as needed". This storage method ensures your hard-grown sprouts remain fresh and available throughout the festive period and beyond.
