JERUSALEM ARTICHOKE
- Jerusalem Artichokes are the perfect crop to fill out space in the garden where other crops simply will not grow. Unlike regular artichokes, they are grown for their underground tubers
- Jerusalem Artichokes are actually members of the sunflower family. As a result the plant can grow up to 10ft tall so plant in a sheltered spot.
- They are perennials, so if left in the ground they will grow again, just make sure you do not allow them to take over your garden.
- Jerusalem artichoke roots can help break up bad soil.
- When it comes to soil conditions and sunlight this is one plant that really is not picky. They will grow in the worst soils and even in shade. The one type of soil Jerusalem artichokes will not do well in is waterlogged soil.
Sowing & Growing
- Plant small tubers in early spring once the ground is useable
-Plant in rows 15cm deep. Plant with 50cm in between each tuber
15cm
Between each plant
15cm
Deep
- Large tubers can be cut into smaller ones as long as they have 3 sprouts on each section
- They need very little care such as feed and as they grow tall they make an excellent wind block.
- As they grow so large I recommend piling up the soil 30cm around the base of the plant to help with stability. Also use stakes to protect from the wind
- You can cut down to 5ft tall and remove flowers as this puts energy unto tuber, do this in august.
Harvest
- Jerusalem Artichokes are slow to harvest with the approximate growing time being 40-50 weeks
- Harvest as needed in early to late winter in the same way you would potatoes
- They are hardy plants that will survive all, but the hardest winters, but pests and waterlogging become an issue
- Be warned, they can be a tricky carb to break down for some people. This is where they get the name fartichokes.
Varieties
Fuseau: Less knobbly and easier to peel