Brussels Sprouts Bedford Darkmar 21

Bedford Darkmar is a lovely open pollinated variety with a classic flavour. By harvesting the lower sprouts first, you can enjoy a steady supply without them all maturing at the same time. We think they are best when they’re still under an inch—harvest from November to January.

SOW: from mid Feb to end April to crop from November through to January. Start them in modules or pots, sowing 10-15mm deep, and when they are about 10cm tall (or have 5/6 leaves) harden them off

GROW: plant into firm soil and space at least 60cm apart. Use the space between them to grow fast maturing or cut-&- come again crops. If your garden is windy be prepared to stake your Brussels (these can be 75cm top heavy plants). In mid-summer they will enjoy a dose of general fertiliser.

EAT & ENJOY: cut a cross in the base of each sprout before cooking so that heat can get into the core. We steam ours for 7-10 minutes (depending on the size). Any large sprouts can be cut in half and braised in the oven.