<P> In Continental Europe, the largest producers are the Netherlands, at 82,000 metric tons, and Germany, at 10,000 tons . The United Kingdom has production comparable to that of the Netherlands, but it is not generally exported . </P> <P> Production of Brussels sprouts in the United States began in the 18th century, when French settlers brought them to Louisiana . The first plantings in California's Central Coast began in the 1920s, with significant production beginning in the 1940s . Currently, several thousand acres are planted in coastal areas of San Mateo, Santa Cruz, and Monterey counties of California, which offer an ideal combination of coastal fog and cool temperatures year - round . The harvest season lasts from June through January . </P> <P> Most American production is in California, with a smaller percentage of the crop grown in Skagit Valley, Washington, where cool springs, mild summers, and rich soil abounds, and to a lesser degree on Long Island, New York . Total American production is approximately 32,000 tons, with a value of $27 million . </P> <P> About 80% to 85% of US production is for the frozen food market, with the remainder for fresh consumption . Once harvested, sprouts last three to five weeks under ideal near - freezing conditions before wilting and discolouring, and about half as long at refrigerator temperature . American varieties are generally 2.5--5 cm (0.98--1.97 in) in diameter . </P>

Where are brussel sprouts grown in the us