Troubleshooting
Brussels sprouts problems — and how to fix them
Brussels sprouts (Brassica oleracea var. gemmifera) is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Loose blown sprouts
Soft soil or too much nitrogen; firm the ground at planting.
Cabbage white caterpillars
Net plants or hand-pick eggs.
Clubroot
Soil fungus; rotate brassicas every 4 years.
Aphids in tight buds
Difficult to dislodge; rinse heads under cold water.
Late-season yellowing leaves
Normal; lower leaves shed as sprouts form.
Prevent brussels sprouts problems before they start
Most brussels sprouts issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Brussels sprouts problems — FAQ
Why is my brussels sprouts loose blown sprouts?
Soft soil or too much nitrogen; firm the ground at planting.
Why is my brussels sprouts cabbage white caterpillars?
Net plants or hand-pick eggs.
Why is my brussels sprouts clubroot?
Soil fungus; rotate brassicas every 4 years.
Why is my brussels sprouts aphids in tight buds?
Difficult to dislodge; rinse heads under cold water.
Why is my brussels sprouts late-season yellowing leaves?
Normal; lower leaves shed as sprouts form.