Modified Transplant Production Techniques to Increase Yield and Improve Earliness of Brussels Sprouts

Abstract

Field studies were conducted to determine the effects of row covers (no row cover or Agryl P-17), seeding date, and seeding method (seeding in a furrow or into a smooth soil surface) on the development, harvest date, and yield of brussels sprouts [Brassica oleracea L. (Gemmifera Group)] grown in southwestern British Columbia. The treatments were applied to the plants in the seedbed after which the plants were transplanted in the field and grown to horticultural maturity. In both years, row covers increased soil temperatures and advanced seedling development and transplanting dates compared with uncovered treatments. Leaf weight ratio (LWR) decreased, specific leaf area (SLA) increased, and leaf area ratio (LAR) was unaffected by the application of row covers. Early seeding also promoted early transplanting. In 1987, plots were harvested when plants reached horticultural maturity. There was a linear effect of seeding date on harvest date, early seeding promoted an early harvest, and row covers advanced the sprout harvest of plants seeded earliest (24 Mar). In 1988 all treatments were harvested from 17 to 19 Oct. and marketable yield was improved by early seeding and by row covers. Seeding method did not influence plant growth or yield.