Seed Count: Approx. 300 seeds

Days to Maturity: 110 Days

Description: Catskill is a tasty, dwarf, heirloom variety of brussel sprouts that grows to about 2 feet tall, making it great for anyone tight on garden space. It has a rich depth of flavor that is unmatched by hybrids. They produce extra large, 1-2 inch, uniform, deep green sprouts that compactly cover their strong stalks. Originally introduced in the 1940s, this old time home garden favorite is great for fresh eating or freezing. Brussel sprouts should grown during the fall, because cold weather gives them the best flavor.

How To Grow

Sowing: Since frost brings out the best flavor, start your seeds in late May or early June for a fall crop. Sow your seeds about a 1/2 inch deep, in rich soil, 2 inches apart. Keep soil moist at about 70 degrees. Seeds should emerge within 10-21 days. Once they grow about 6 inches tall, transplant or thin them to 2 feet apart.

Growing: Brussel sprouts need regular, even moisture for rapid uninterrupted growth. They require about 1-1 1/2 inches of water a week. Mulch your plants to conserve moisture and to reduce weeds. If heavy winds threaten, stakes may be necessary to support your plants. As the leaves on your plants start to yellow, remove them so the sprouts can form freely. Keep an eye out for aphids. A heavy spray of water should be enough to dislodge them. They also need a good composting or fertilizing routine, to form sprouts quickly. Companion plant with dill, rosemary, sage, thyme, chamomile, potatoes, celery, beets, onions, mint, and nasturtiums. Aromatic herbs help to repel those destructive cabbage moths. Brassicas will over winter in most areas. In fact, plants in the brassica family are more tender, sweeter, and delicious after a frost. However, if you're expecting extreme temperatures, mulch may be necessary.

Harvesting: About 4 months after transplanting, the first sprouts should be ready for harvest. Twist your sprouts off the stems, harvesting from the bottom up. Smaller sprouts, about 1 inch in diameter, are the most tender. To continue harvesting sprouts after frost, hang the entire plant upside down, in a cool place. Sprouts should continue to develop for a few more weeks. This variety is great for freezing. To save seeds: Seed heads won't develop until the Spring, so over wintering may be necessary. Once they flower and go to seed, watch them carefully because seed heads tend to burst when dry. Once they start to dry, remove seed heads from the plant, and dry them completely indoors. Thresh seeds and clean off as much chaff as possible, then store the seeds in a cool, dry place. Store your seeds for up to 5 years.

Catskill Brussel Sprouts