Brussels Sprout 'Igor'

'Igor' is a modern F1 hybrid Brussels sprout that is perfectly suited to the British winter. It is a mid-to-late-season variety, famed for its tall, sturdy stems that are packed with medium-sized, dark green, very firm sprouts. One of its key strengths in the UK climate is its excellent resistance to "lodging" (falling over in high winds) and its ability to hold its sprouts in good condition on the stem for a long time. The sprouts themselves have a sweet, nutty flavour, especially after they have been touched by the first few frosts, which helps convert starches into sugars. It requires a firm, fertile, alkaline soil and, like all brassicas, needs protection from birds. Sown in spring, it provides a reliable harvest from November through January, making it a crucial component of the traditional British Christmas dinner. It is a high-yielding and resilient choice for any vegetable grower.

Sun: Full sun to partial shade.

Soil: Firm, heavy, alkaline soil.

Hardiness: H5 — down to −15°C.