Brussels sprouts are relatively easy to grow and take up little space in the garden. Must be started indoors 4 weeks before your last frost date. This is a long season crop - planted in spring for a fall harvest.

Grown for centuries but popularized by Thomas Jefferson, who introduced Brussels sprouts to America in the early 1800's.

Must be started indoors 4 weeks before your last frost date. This is a long season crop – planted in spring for a fall harvest.

Brussels sprouts like well nourished soils.

Plant the sprouts 2 feet apart in rows 3 feet apart. Provide at least an inch of water per week.

Sometimes susceptible to the same pests and diseases as other cabbage family member - so avoid planting these or any of their relatives in the same spot each year.

Wait until after your first frost to begin the harvest. This "frosting" improves the flavor and sweetness. To harvest, simply twist the sprouts off the stem, gathering only as many as you need at one time. The remaining sprouts will keep on the plants through part of the winter. You can even pick when there's snow on the ground.

Brussels sprouts are tasty both raw and cooked. Steaming and boiling are the favorite of most gardeners. Sprouts keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.