"Rod" wrote in message
...


Sounds like grey aphids and the mould on the honeydew they secrete +
debris
from cast aphid skins.

I'd agree with that, from my own experience.

What I'd like to know is how the aphids get into the very, I mean very,
tight buttons I'm so proud of. It takes ages peeling off the outer leaves
until I stop seeing the blighters and their deposits.

It's worth it though, the sprouts are really delicious.

And sweet :-)

Mary