Gladius is an F1 hybrid Brussels sprout bred for early maturity and reliable performance across hardiness zones 3 through 10. Ready to harvest in 98 days, this compact variety produces firm, field-holding sprouts that stay on the stalk longer than many others, giving you flexibility in the kitchen garden. Its frost-hardy nature means you can push the season into fall, and the tight growth habit fits neatly into smaller garden spaces or intensive planting schemes.
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Moderate
3-10
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High
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Gladius combines early maturity with exceptional field-holding ability, so the sprouts maintain quality on the plant well into harvest season rather than deteriorating once mature. The compact growth habit and 18-inch spacing requirement make this variety suited to gardeners working with limited room, while its proven vigor under good irrigation and fertility makes it a low-fuss performer for those willing to feed and water consistently.
Brussels sprouts are harvested for the edible buds that form along the main stalk, typically roasted, steamed, or sautéed. Gladius's early maturity and firm texture make it well-suited to these preparations, with the field-holding trait allowing you to pick sprouts gradually over several weeks rather than all at once.
No timeline data available yet for this variety.
In May, sow 2 to 3 seeds per cell in 72-cell plug flats, or 3 to 4 seeds per inch in 20-row flats, planting seeds 1/4 inch deep. Seedlings will be ready to transplant outdoors in 4 to 6 weeks. Maintain soil temperature between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit for germination.
Transplant seedlings when they have developed their true leaves and are 4 to 6 weeks old from sowing. Space plants 18 inches apart, with rows 30 to 36 inches apart. Ensure soil is fertile and well-irrigated at planting time to establish strong root systems.
Gladius reaches maturity around 98 days from transplanting. Begin harvesting when the sprouts are firm and reach a desirable size, typically 1 to 2 inches in diameter. One of the key strengths of this variety is its field-holding ability, meaning sprouts remain firm and harvestable on the stalk for an extended period rather than becoming loose or deteriorating once they mature. This allows you to harvest gradually over several weeks rather than all at once. Before the ground freezes, you can pull entire plants out by the roots if you wish to extend storage.
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