Growing Brussel Sprouts

I have had a love/hate relationship with my growing of brussel sprouts.  This is my first time growing brussel sprouts.  I don't know optimal time for growing brussel sprouts.   I planted Botanical Interests Long Island Improved Brussel Sprouts back in September.  I didn't think they sprouted so I ended up buying transplants in October.  I now have 9 plants, 6 transplants, 3 direct seeded.  I'm sure I seeded more than 3 but that's what happened. 

Now knowing how long this growing season is, I realize I should have planted seeds in June or July in order to get a nice winter crop, which will be my room for improvement. 

A few stalks are nice and chubby and stumpy.  Some are long and lanky.  One fell over and is growing in an S shape.  All I know is, I've been waiting to eat brussel sprouts and I don't have enough even for a side dish.   None of my sprouts are compact.  Half of them are open and look like matured cabbage.  Probably too warm for them.  We did have a few 90 degree days this week.  

Sigh... I think I have to do more research.  

What's wrong my little herbs?

I grow my herbs in containers in shared areas of my apartment building.   Its in a narrow walkway.   The sunlight exposure isn't very good but they do well.  It gets about 3 hours of direct sun a day.  Not great, but it's all I have and its convenient for me to shoot down the stairs when I'm cooking. 

Nothing has changed in the last few years but what's wrong with them?  The leaves of my parsley and basil are a bit yellowed but they look amazing.  Whats wrong?   Not enough sun? Need fertilizer?   Nitrogen?  Old potting soil? Bad potting soil? Water?  Please help...