What to Plant with Brussels Sprouts: A Guide to Companion Planting

Brussels Sprouts: The Perfect Companion Plants

Brussels sprouts are a delicious and nutritious winter vegetable that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. They’re also a great choice for companion planting, as they can help to improve the growth and health of other plants in your garden.

In this article, we’ll discuss some of the best companion plants for Brussels sprouts, as well as some of the benefits of companion planting in general. We’ll also provide some tips on how to successfully grow Brussels sprouts in your garden.

So if you’re looking for a way to improve the growth and health of your Brussels sprouts, or if you’re simply looking for some new companion plants to try, read on!

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Plant Benefits Tips
Cabbage Attracts beneficial insects, helps repel pests Plant cabbage 1-2 feet away from Brussels sprouts.
Lettuce Provides shade, helps prevent pests Plant lettuce 1-2 feet away from Brussels sprouts.
Onions Helps repel pests Plant onions 1-2 feet away from Brussels sprouts.
Peas Fixes nitrogen in the soil, helps improve growth Plant peas 1-2 feet away from Brussels sprouts.
Spinach Attracts beneficial insects, helps repel pests Plant spinach 1-2 feet away from Brussels sprouts.

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Companion Plants for Brussels Sprouts

What are companion plants?

Companion plants are plants that are grown in close proximity to each other in order to improve the growth and health of both plants. Companion plants can provide a variety of benefits, such as:

  • Attracting pollinators: Some companion plants attract pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, which can help to improve the pollination of Brussels sprouts.
  • Distracting pests: Other companion plants can help to distract pests from Brussels sprouts, such as aphids and cabbage moths.
  • Providing nutrients: Some companion plants can provide nutrients to the soil, which can help to improve the growth of Brussels sprouts.
  • Covering the soil: Some companion plants can help to cover the soil, which can help to prevent weeds from growing and can also help to retain moisture in the soil.

Benefits of companion planting

There are many benefits to companion planting Brussels sprouts, including:

  • Increased yields: Companion planting can help to increase the yields of Brussels sprouts by improving the growth and health of the plants.
  • Improved pest control: Companion planting can help to improve pest control by attracting beneficial insects and distracting pests from the Brussels sprouts.
  • Reduced need for fertilizers and pesticides: Companion planting can help to reduce the need for fertilizers and pesticides by providing nutrients to the soil and attracting beneficial insects.
  • Enhanced soil health: Companion planting can help to enhance soil health by improving the drainage, aeration, and nutrient content of the soil.

Common companion plants for Brussels sprouts

There are many different companion plants that can be grown with Brussels sprouts, some of the most common include:

  • Allium species: Allium species, such as garlic and onions, can help to repel pests from Brussels sprouts.
  • Cucumbers: Cucumbers can help to attract pollinators to Brussels sprouts.
  • Marigolds: Marigolds can help to repel pests from Brussels sprouts.
  • Nasturtiums: Nasturtiums can help to attract pollinators to Brussels sprouts.
  • Peas: Peas can help to improve the nitrogen content of the soil, which can benefit Brussels sprouts.
  • Radishes: Radishes can help to attract beneficial insects to Brussels sprouts.
  • Spinach: Spinach can help to improve the drainage of the soil, which can benefit Brussels sprouts.
  • Tomatoes: Tomatoes can help to attract pollinators to Brussels sprouts.

When to plant companion plants with Brussels sprouts

The best time to plant companion plants with Brussels sprouts is when the Brussels sprouts seedlings are about 2 inches tall. This will give the companion plants enough time to establish themselves before the Brussels sprouts start to grow too large.

How to plant companion plants with Brussels sprouts

To plant companion plants with Brussels sprouts, simply dig a hole in the soil that is large enough to accommodate the companion plant’s roots. Place the companion plant in the hole and backfill the hole with soil. Water the companion plant well and mulch around the plant to help retain moisture.

Spacing Brussels Sprouts

How to space Brussels sprouts

Brussels sprouts should be spaced about 18 inches apart in rows that are 3 feet apart. This will give the Brussels sprouts enough space to grow and develop properly.

Benefits of proper spacing

Properly spacing Brussels sprouts can help to improve the growth and health of the plants. When Brussels sprouts are spaced too closely together, they can compete for resources, such as water and sunlight, which can lead to stunted growth and poor yields. Proper spacing can also help to reduce the risk of disease and pest infestation.

Problems with improper spacing

When Brussels sprouts are spaced too closely together, they can experience a number of problems, including:

  • Stunted growth: Brussels sprouts that are spaced too closely together will not have enough space to grow and develop properly. This can lead to smaller Brussels sprouts that are not as flavorful.
  • Poor yields: Brussels sprouts that are spaced too closely together will not produce as many Brussels sprouts as Brussels sprouts that are spaced properly.
  • Disease and pest infestation: Brussels sprouts that are spaced too closely together are more susceptible to disease and pest infestation. This can lead to the loss of Brussels sprouts and the spread of disease to other plants in the garden.

Companion planting and proper spacing are two important factors that can help to improve the growth and health of Brussels sprouts. By planting companion plants that attract pollinators, distract pests, and provide nutrients, you can help to increase the yields of your Brussels sprouts and reduce the need for fertilizers and pesticides. By properly spacing your Brussels sprouts, you can

What Can I Plant Near Brussel Sprouts?

Brussels sprouts are a cool-season crop that are relatively easy to grow. They are a good source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Brussels sprouts can be planted in early spring or late summer. They mature in about 90 days.

Brussels sprouts are a heavy feeder, so they need to be planted in soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should also be well-drained. Brussels sprouts do not like to be waterlogged.

Brussels sprouts can be planted in a variety of places in the garden. They can be planted in rows, in raised beds, or in containers. When planting Brussels sprouts, it is important to space the plants about 18 inches apart.

Brussels sprouts can be planted near a variety of other vegetables. Some good companion plants for Brussels sprouts include:

  • Tomatoes
  • Peppers
  • Carrots
  • Lettuce
  • Spinach
  • Cucumbers
  • Radishes
  • Onions
  • Garlic

Brussels sprouts can also be planted near herbs such as:

  • Rosemary
  • Thyme
  • Sage
  • Oregano
  • Basil

When planting Brussels sprouts near other plants, it is important to consider the size and growth habit of the plants. Brussels sprouts are a tall plant, so it is important to plant them behind shorter plants. Brussels sprouts also need a lot of sunlight, so it is important to plant them in a spot where they will get plenty of sun.

Rotating Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts are a heavy feeder, so they can deplete the soil of nutrients. It is important to rotate Brussels sprouts to a different area of the garden each year to avoid nutrient depletion.

When rotating Brussels sprouts, it is important to choose a different area of the garden that has not been planted with Brussels sprouts in the past few years. This will help to reduce the risk of pests and diseases.

It is also important to make sure that the soil in the new area is rich in organic matter. Brussels sprouts do not like to be planted in soil that is too sandy or too clayey.

When rotating Brussels sprouts, it is important to dig up the old plants and remove as much of the roots as possible. This will help to prevent pests and diseases from spreading to the new area.

Fertilizing Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts are a heavy feeder, so they need to be fertilized regularly. The best time to fertilize Brussels sprouts is in early spring, before the plants start to grow.

Brussels sprouts can be fertilized with a variety of fertilizers. Some good options include:

  • Compost
  • Manure
  • Blood meal
  • Bone meal
  • Fish emulsion

When fertilizing Brussels sprouts, it is important to follow the directions on the fertilizer label. It is also important to make sure that the fertilizer is applied to the soil around the plants and not directly to the leaves.

Brussels sprouts are a delicious and nutritious vegetable that is relatively easy to grow. By following these tips, you can grow healthy and productive Brussels sprouts in your garden.

What Can I Plant Near Brussel Sprouts?

  • A. Brussels sprouts are a cool-season crop that can be planted in early spring or fall. They grow best in full sun and well-drained soil. Brussels sprouts are heavy feeders, so it is important to fertilize them regularly.
  • Q. What are some good companion plants for Brussels sprouts?
  • A. Some good companion plants for Brussels sprouts include:
  • Tomatoes
  • Carrots
  • Lettuce
  • Onions
  • Peas
  • Radishes
  • Spinach
  • Q. What are some plants that should not be planted near Brussels sprouts?
  • A. Some plants that should not be planted near Brussels sprouts include:
  • Cabbage
  • Cauliflower
  • Kohlrabi
  • Mustard
  • Turnips
  • Q. Why should I not plant certain plants near Brussels sprouts?
  • A. These plants are all in the same family as Brussels sprouts and are susceptible to the same diseases. Planting them near each other can increase the risk of spreading disease.
  • Q. How far apart should I plant Brussels sprouts?
  • A. Brussels sprouts should be planted 18-24 inches apart.
  • Q. When should I harvest Brussels sprouts?
  • A. Brussels sprouts can be harvested from late summer to early fall. The best time to harvest them is when the heads are firm and tightly packed.
  • Q. How do I store Brussels sprouts?
  • A. Brussels sprouts can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. To store them, remove the leaves and cut off the stem. Place the Brussels sprouts in a plastic bag and store them in the crisper drawer of the refrigerator.

Additional Resources:

  • [The Spruce Eats: Growing Brussels Sprouts](https://www.thespruceeats.com/growing-brussels-sprouts-591943)
  • [Gardening Know How: Companion Planting for Brussels Sprouts](https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/vegetables/brussels-sprouts/companion-plants-for-brussels-sprouts.htm)
  • [University of California Cooperative Extension: Brussels Sprouts](https://ucanr.edu/sites/ucanr.edu/files/101610.pdf)

    In this blog post, we have discussed the topic of what you can plant near Brussels sprouts. We have provided a list of companion plants that are beneficial to Brussels sprouts, as well as a list of plants that should be avoided. We have also discussed the importance of crop rotation and how to properly space your Brussels sprouts plants. We hope that this information has been helpful and that you will be able to grow a successful crop of Brussels sprouts this year!

Author Profile

Arthur Cook
Arthur Cook
Meet Arthur Cook, the heart and soul behind Plant4Harvest.com. Arthur’s story is deeply rooted in the rich soil of a small American town, where the horizon is wide, and the values of hard work and connection to the land run deep. Born and raised in the quaint town of Elkmont, Alabama, Arthur’s journey in agriculture began in the sprawling fields of his family’s farm, a stone’s throw away from the Tennessee border.

Arthur’s thirst for agricultural knowledge led him to Auburn University, where he majored in Agricultural Science. During his college years, Arthur dedicated his summers to working on local farms, gaining practical experience in modern farming techniques. His academic and real-world experiences combined to give him a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities in American agriculture.

Arthur Cook is more than just a farmer; he is an advocate for sustainable agriculture and a mentor to the next generation of farmers. Through Plant4Harvest.com, he continues to inspire, educate, and engage with a community of individuals who share his love for the land and commitment to preserving it for future generations.