This crop is not for small gardens. Jerusalem artichoke is a perennial plant, which provides good cover for birds and amphibians. It crowds out many weeds and makes a useful summer windbreak. This plant usually produces pretty sunflower-like blooms. The edible parts are the knotty tubers that grow in the ground.

These tubers can vary in size and color from white to red, depending on the variant. A Jerusalem Artichoke tuber will look like a root of Ginger, with knobs and layers of skin on the outside. Once cut open, the flesh is white to red, and has a crisp texture. There is some crop diversity and organic and heirloom varieties are not easy to obtain. Jerusalem artichoke is also known as sunchoke.

Ideal Site – Jerusalem artichoke does best in open sunny spaces, but will tolerate some shade. Avoid waterlogged or poorly drained sites. Prior to planting apply a medium-fertility soil improver. A high-fertility one will produce larger tubers. The ideal soil pH is 6-7.5

Seed to Harvest- 16-20 weeks

Cultivation- Plant tubers 6in (15cm) deep in February or March.

Spacing-  Rows: 12in x 3ft (30cm x 1m) : Block Planting 18in. (45cm)

Plant Care- Support the Jerusalem artichoke plants with a stout stake and wires or individual canes in windy areas. Mound up 1 ½ - 4in. (4-10cm) of soil around the roots for additional support. Watering in dry weather and removing flower buds will increase the yield. When leaves turn yellow in late summer, cut stems to 6in (15cm)

Problems- Jerusalem artichokes are generally trouble free but on occasion may be attacked by slugs or wireworms. These plants can become weeds themselves if tubers are left in the ground.

Harvesting- Tubers do not store well once harvested so they are best dug when needed, after the leaves have turned yellow. Replant some for next season if required. Remove all tubers if you want to clear the area.

Nutrients- Jerusalem artichokes are rich in protein, carbohydrate, dietary fiber, iron, Potassium , copper, manganese, magnesium, and Vitamin A, B6, B12, C, D, E, K