Growing Jerusalem Artichokes, also Sunchoke

Helianthus tuberosus : Asteraceae / the daisy family

Jan F M A M J J A S O N Dec
      P                

(Best months for growing Jerusalem Artichokes in USA - Zone 5a regions)

  • P = Plant tubers
  • Easy to grow. Plant tubers about 5cm (1.5") deep.. Best planted at soil temperatures between 46°F and 59°F. (Show °C/cm)
  • Space plants: 12 - 18 inches apart
  • Harvest in 15-20 weeks.
  • Compatible with (can grow beside): Tomatoes, cucumbers

Your comments and tips

11 Feb 13, Julie Rowles (Australia - temperate climate)
I am growing J.Artichokes and they are 2 metres tall and still not flowering .They grow taller than 1.5 metres for sure I usually pickle them and they are delicious. I havent noticed any flatulance,may be the pickling process helps.
18 Feb 13, DARREN (Australia - sub-tropical climate)
Hi Julie yes Im in brisbane and a first time grower mine were planted at different times and locations. Ones I planted on the east side started flowering before xmas and are still going strong and now nearly 2 metres high. The later planted ones are also now budding up.What sort of yields do you get and how do you pickle them.
05 May 13, joanne (Australia - temperate climate)
hi yes how do you pickle them and dose anyone have any other way to use them?
05 Feb 13, richard (Australia - cool/mountain climate)
These are high in soluble fibre - which is a good thing for colonic health and health in general. The well known side-effect however is major flatulence - so don't plan any significant social activities for the following 24 hours. Pre-soaking the tubers in lemon juice prior to cooking can neutralise this to some extent.
04 Feb 13, John Weymouth (Australia - sub-tropical climate)
I have heard claims of great health benefits from Jerusalem artichokes, can you comment on this please. thank you
03 Feb 13, Jopie & Jake Peetoom (Australia - temperate climate)
Hi Joanne, We have just become aware of the health benefits of JA and want to try and grow some again. We were successful a couple of years ago, but the flatulence effect put us off so we did not keep any seed stock. With the benefit of Asa Foetida powder to control the 'gas' we may try again. However, we have been unable to source them here in the Perth Hills. Please let us know whether you can send us some and how you would like to be paid for the postage. I suppose we can always mail you postage stamps to cover the cost. Regards.
05 May 13, joanne green (Australia - temperate climate)
hi guys email me if you want some joannex5@yahoo.com.au
16 Jan 13, Hans (Australia - temperate climate)
For all of you who may be concernded about undesirable side effects from eating Jerusalem artichokes: Try sprinkling a pinch or two of Asa Foetida powder into the appropriate cooking utensil just before completing the cooking. The Indian vegetarians have used Asa Foetida for centuries, to combat and eliminate flatulence caused by bean and other vegetarian dishes. It could work with the Artichokes too.
25 Feb 13, Jacqueline (Australia - cool/mountain climate)
Where do we acquire Asa Foetida from please?
14 Jan 13, Jen (Australia - temperate climate)
can Jerusalem Artichokes be eaten before the flowers appear?When they are small, round and white.
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