Forget what you thought about Brussels sprouts as a child or the sprouts you've bought from the grocery store. They just can't compare to those picked fresh from the garden. An heirloom variety grown since the 1890's, Long Island is still the most popular variety grown today. Each little sprout is like a tiny cabbage with nutty sweet flavor. Try them roasted with other vegetables, a hearty meat, or sausage. They can even be chopped finely and used raw in salads or in coleslaw. These compact Brussels sprouts plants reach 20\-24" tall and can be left in the garden into the winter as they tolerate temperatures down to around 25 degrees F. Frost actually improves the flavor, and the plants resemble little palm trees (taking on a unique look when dusted with snow) making them an interesting ornamental.
When to plant outside: 3-4 months before first fall frost.
When to start inside: 4 to 6 weeks before transplanting outside. Plant in the garden about 12
