Growth and yield of Brussels sprout varieties for spring production

Abstract

ABSTRACT Brussels sprouts (Brassica oleracea L. var. gemmifera) is a slow-growing, cool-season crop with a maturation time ranging from 3 to 4 mo. In areas where high temperatures can be expected the quality of sprouts is lowered. In Oklahoma, USA, growers have a narrow window to grow the crop in the spring because temperature rising to become undesirable for sprout production can occur in late spring. Variety selection is critical since some varieties may not produce firm harvestable sprouts under Oklahoma growing conditions. Eleven cultivars were included in the 2020 trial and 15 cultivars were included in the 2021 trial. Five and 13 cultivars that developed marketable sprouts were harvested in 2020 and 2021, respectively. Plant height, plant weight, and number and weight of marketable and cull sprouts were recorded. “Marte” and “Dagan” in both years, and “Confidant” in 2021 were the best performers with higher marketable yield for spring Brussels sprout production in Oklahoma. The results provide important guidance for growers to select cultivars suitable for a climate with a short period of cool temperatures.