Long Island Improved Brussels Sprouts Seeds

Long Island Improved Brussels Sprouts is the classic American heirloom variety that has been filling gardens and dinner tables for well over a century. Introduced in the late 1800s, this dependable variety produces sturdy, compact plants loaded with dozens of firm, flavorful sprouts from the base of the stalk to the top. Famous for its excellent cold tolerance, heavy yields, and rich, nutty flavor, Long Island Improved remains the gold standard for home gardeners seeking traditional Brussels sprouts with outstanding quality and dependable performance.

Flavor Profile

Long Island Improved develops a rich, slightly sweet, nutty flavor with a firm, tender texture. Cool temperatures naturally convert starches into sugars, giving fall-harvested sprouts an exceptionally mild taste with very little bitterness. Roasting further caramelizes the natural sugars, creating one of the finest flavors of any cool-season vegetable.

Growing Information

Start seeds indoors 5 to 7 weeks before transplanting or sow directly for fall harvests. Space plants 18–24 inches apart in fertile soil enriched with compost. Maintain consistent moisture throughout the growing season and fertilize regularly to encourage vigorous stalk development. Brussels sprouts perform best in cool weather and develop their finest flavor after several light frosts.

Harvest & Storage

Harvest sprouts from the bottom of the stalk upward as they become firm and reach approximately 1 to 2 inches in diameter. Picking lower sprouts first allows the upper sprouts to continue maturing. Entire stalks may also be harvested after frost for convenient storage. Fresh sprouts keep well under refrigeration for several weeks and freeze exceptionally well after blanching.

Quick Facts