Brussels Sprout Groninger ( Brassica oleracea var. gemmifera ) is a variety that was developed in the 15th century; in Belgium. The Groninger have good flavour, are a quick & heavy producer and are easy to grow. Brussels Sprout are a cold climate vegetable and although they can be grown in sub-tropical regions; they must be planted at the right time and only if weather allows will they produce good vegetables. If the weather gets too warm, they can become loose and floppy or not develop properly; it is a bit of a gamble.
These mini cabbages are famous for being avoided on the dinner plate, sadly this is often due to overcooking which gives them a bitter taste. When cooked correctly these little beauties are quite delicious. Brussels Sprout are a great source of vitamins and minerals and research has shown that eating them has many additional health benefits such as; aiding in bone strength; inflammation, aging; liver disease; cancer fighting and more.
Growth
Brussels Sprout Groninger stems can grow to 50-60 cm’s tall and may need staking to keep them upright. The sprouts themselves are ready for harvest in 85-95 days. Harvest from the bottom of the stem when they are around 2.5 cm’s and firm; as these are the ones that will mature first. If sprouts begin to yellow; it is too late to harvest them. Frost tolerant, the flavour is best in the frosty colder months.
We always recommend growing your food organically, so when fertilising or trying to keep pests under control, keep in mind that there are always organic options. Your body and family will thank you!
Note: Germination instructions can be found in the ‘Germination Instructions Tab’ below. Upon purchase you will receive these detailed instructions via email so that you have a permanent record.
FAMILY:
Brassicaceae
CLIMATE:
Cold to Sub-Tropical. Can be grown in Tropical regions but they may not develop as well.
TEMPERATURE RANGE:
-15 to 30°C / 5 to 86°F
SOIL TYPE:
Well-draining, compost rich soils. Add agricultural lime if pH is alkaline.
LOCATION:
Full sun, will tolerate some shade, especially in hotter climates.
HEIGHT:
Up to 60 cm’s (24 inches)
WIDTH:
Up to 30 cm’s (12 inches)
pH:
6.0-6.8
GROWTH TYPE:
Biennial – Generally grown as an annual
WATER REQUIREMENTS:
Medium
POLLINATION:
Pollinated by Bees
MATURITY:
Average 85-95 days
GERMINATION RATES:
92%
GERMINATION TIME:
7-14 days
GERMINATION DIFFICULTY:
Easy
SEEDS PER GRAM:
Approximately 300
MEDICINAL QUALITIES:
Yes
WEED POTENTIAL:
No
EDIBLE:
Yes
SEED STORAGE & VIABILITY:
Cold Storage at 4°C (Fridge) up to 3 years.
FACTS ABOUT BRASSICA OLERACEA (Brussels Sprout Groninger)
The Groninger variety is named after a city in the Netherlands.
Brussels Sprout were given the botanical name Brassica oleracea var. gemmifera; the word gemmifera translates to ‘garden cabbage bearing gems’.
