When to Plant Brussels Sprout in California

Growing Brussels Sprout in California: Complete Guide

Brussels Sprout (Brassica oleracea var. gemmifera) is a warm-season crop that needs a head start indoors before California's last frost. Depending on your zone, California gardeners start seeds indoors between October 9, 2026 (Zone 11a) and January 31, 2027 (Zone 5b), then move transplants outside once their zone's last frost has passed — the zone table above has your exact dates.

Because California stretches across 12 USDA hardiness zones (5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b, 10a, 10b, 11a), planting windows can shift by as much as six to eight weeks from one end of the state to the other. Gardeners in the warmer southern zones can start earlier, while those in cooler northern zones should wait until the zone table above shows their last frost has passed.

With 84 days to maturity, Brussels Sprout needs the indoor head start that California's growing season requires. Starting indoors ensures you have strong transplants ready the moment outdoor conditions are right.

Brussels Sprout requires full sun and regular moisture. California's microclimates vary widely — coastal gardens stay cooler while inland valleys can reach extreme summer heat.

For the most precise planting dates tailored to your exact location, enter your ZIP code on our planting calendar or use the zone table above to find the schedule for your area of California.