Catskill is a beloved heirloom Brussels sprouts variety developed in 1941 by Arthur White of Arkport, New York. It remains a favorite among home gardeners for its heavy yields of plump, deep-green sprouts that stack generously along short, sturdy stalks only 20–24 inches tall. The compact height makes harvesting far easier than with taller varieties—no ladders or constant bending required. Sprouts are firm, flavorful, and excellent fresh, roasted, or frozen, and they store well on the stalk in cool conditions.
Flavor improves dramatically after light frosts; cold weather converts starches to sugars, giving Catskill sprouts their classic sweet-nutty taste. For that reason, it is traditionally grown as a fall-to-winter crop. Plants are remarkably cold-hardy and can stand through repeated frosts (even down to the low 20s °F) while continuing to size up and sweeten the sprouts.
The plants reach maturity 85–110 days from transplant, depending on conditions. Each stalk carries dozens of 1–1¾-inch sprouts that hold well without blowing open, providing a long, leisurely harvest window from the bottom up. Because the plants stay short and stocky, they require minimal staking even in windy areas, and their modest size makes them suitable for larger containers or tight garden spaces.
Set transplants 18–24 inches apart in rich, firm soil (pH 6.5–7.5) amended with plenty of compost. Brussels sprouts are heavy feeders; side-dress with a balanced fertilizer or aged manure halfway through the season. Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, and mulch heavily to retain moisture and keep roots cool.
Begin harvesting when sprouts reach 1–1½ inches and feel firm—start at the bottom and work upward over several weeks (or simply cut the entire stalk at once for storage). A light frost or two is welcome; many gardeners leave Catskill in the garden well into early winter, picking as needed. With its combination of high yield, compact habit, outstanding flavor after frost, and easy harvesting, Catskill is the perfect heirloom Brussels sprout for home gardeners who want big results from small spaces.
Sold as a 4-pack.
