What's the best fertilizer for Brussels sprouts?

Written by
Paul Reynolds
Reviewed by
Prof. Martin Thorne, Ph.D.Fertilization is important in terms of how quickly they develop and how they are harvested. Fertilize when planting with a general balanced 10-10-10 NPK fertilizer, so that the target plant has the benefit of a healthy root system to start with. Alternate with a nitrogen-rich fertilizer once sprouts start developing. Compac Brussels sprouts require a lot of nitrogen to grow their lush leaves, and this approach encourages the tight, compact growth of their sprouts.
Organic alternatives provide slow-release nutrition without the use of chemicals. Fish emulsion provides an immediate nitrogen boost every 3 to 4 weeks. Blood meal is an excellent source of concentrated nitrogen for fast green growth. Compost tea enhances soil microbiology, allowing plants to absorb available nutrients more easily. You should stop all fertilization four weeks before harvest, or your food will have a bitter taste.
Planting Stage
- Incorporate 10-10-10 into soil
- Apply 1 cup per plant
- Mix thoroughly with top 6 inches
Growth Phase
- Side-dress with blood meal monthly
- Apply fish emulsion biweekly
- Maintain soil pH 6.0-7.5
Pre-Harvest
- Cease fertilizing 4 weeks pre-harvest
- Focus on consistent watering
- Apply potassium for frost hardiness
Application methods All fertilizers depend on being properly applied for their effectiveness. Work granular fertilizers into the top 6 inches of soil around the drip line. Liquid fertilizers should be diluted to half strength and applied directly to the roots. Leaf sprays are useful for making quick corrections, but avoid using them during the blooming period. Water well after every application to avoid burning the roots.
Soil testing, preventing over-fertilization. Retest every six weeks during periods of active growth. You should find nitrogen at approximately 40-60 ppm. Formulas can be adjusted accordingly. Yellowing leaves at the lower fans of such an orchid, especially the 'unusual' ones, will indicate a nitrogen deficiency. Plants may exhibit a purple tinge, indicating a phosphorus deficiency, which needs to be addressed immediately.
Adaptation to seasonal seasons. Our autumn feeding should be increased in preparation for frost; likewise, our spring feeding should be increased due to the rapid development of the plant. All feeding should be mitigated on hot summer days exceeding 85°F, so that growth may proceed uniformly without drawing on the plant when the temperature is high.
Mix together: organic sources for slower-release balanced nutrition. Add compost in layers under a mulch to gradually leach nutrients into the soil. "Alternate" between a fish emulsion and seaweed extracts. Workers of wonders, they build up the fertility of the soil while giving immediate nourishment. Well-fed plants give abundant sweet, flavorful crops of sprouts.
Read the full article: How to Grow Brussels Sprouts Perfectly