Brussels sprouts are a popular garden vegetable. Cultivating them can be rewarding, but gardeners often face challenges when animals feast on their plants. Understanding which creatures are responsible is the first step in protecting a harvest.
Common Animals That Eat Brussels Sprouts
Several common garden inhabitants consume Brussels sprouts. Among insects, the imported cabbageworm and cabbage looper are frequent culprits. These green caterpillars chew ragged holes in the leaves and often burrow into the developing sprouts themselves, leaving behind dark green frass, which is their excrement.
Aphids, small, soft-bodied insects, also pose a threat to Brussels sprouts. They cluster on the undersides of leaves and on the tender new growth, sucking sap from the plant. This feeding can lead to stunted growth, distorted leaves, and a sticky residue called honeydew, which can then encourage the growth of sooty mold. Slugs and snails are nocturnal feeders that leave irregular holes in leaves and distinctive silvery slime trails across the plant and surrounding soil.
Mammals can cause significant damage to Brussels sprouts. Rabbits often chew young stems and lower leaves, sometimes severing entire plants near the ground. Groundhogs, also known as woodchucks, can quickly decimate a patch of Brussels sprouts, consuming both leaves and young sprouts. Deer tear leaves and stems rather than making clean cuts, and they can reach higher parts of the plant.
Birds, particularly pigeons and starlings, can also peck at Brussels sprout leaves and developing sprouts. This damage often appears as small, irregular holes or torn edges on the foliage. Observing the specific type of damage helps in identifying the exact animal responsible.
Protecting Your Brussels Sprouts from Pests
Protecting Brussels sprouts from animal damage involves implementing a combination of physical barriers and garden management practices. Physical exclusion is effective against many pests, from insects to larger mammals. Installing fine mesh row covers immediately after planting can prevent most flying insects, such as cabbageworms and aphids, from reaching the plants.
For larger animals like rabbits, groundhogs, and deer, sturdy fencing is a deterrent. A fence at least 2-3 feet high with small mesh is sufficient for rabbits and groundhogs, while deer require a fence of 7-8 feet in height to prevent them from jumping over. Burying the bottom of the fence a few inches deep can prevent burrowing animals from getting underneath.
Maintaining good garden hygiene also contributes to pest control. Regularly removing plant debris and weeds around Brussels sprout plants reduces hiding spots for slugs and snails. Avoiding overhead watering can help keep the environment less hospitable for these moisture-loving pests. Companion planting, such as interspersing Brussels sprouts with aromatic herbs like dill or marigolds, may deter certain insects due to their strong scents.