Growing Jerusalem Artichokes, also Sunchoke

Helianthus tuberosus : Asteraceae / the daisy family

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

(Best months for growing Jerusalem Artichokes in Canada - Zone 5b Temperate Warm Summer regions)

  • P = Plant tubers
  • Easy to grow. Plant tubers about 5cm (1.5") deep.. Best planted at soil temperatures between 8°C and 15°C. (Show °F/in)
  • Space plants: 30 - 45 cm apart
  • Harvest in 15-20 weeks.
  • Compatible with (can grow beside): Tomatoes, cucumbers

Your comments and tips

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12 Feb 18, Paul Lefebvre (Canada - Zone 6a Temperate Warm Summer climate)
Jerusalem Artichokes can definitely planted in the fall. Studies show that fall plantings are, in fact, better for production as it promotes an earlier start for the plant.
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30 Oct 17, rita near kamllops (Canada - Zone 3b Temperate Warm Summer climate)
No one responded so I will. I do not know for certain. I shop at farmer's market where 2 organic farmers grow and sell these. Both know I grow much of my own food. The guy I normally buy these from never suggested I plant any.. He had ended for the season and I purchased from the other grower. She was telling everyone to plant some of what they buy. HOWEVER she often sales pitches to clear out stock. Also they are zone 4 - 5 -along the river near Kamloops.. I'm at much higher elevation in an unpredictable area. I long ago quit buying zone 4 plants due to cold snaps that hit every few years. I'm going to try a couple roots this fall if I can get them in this week. (end Oct, 1st of Nov -the next snow might stay). If you have access to them I suggest you try a few too. All the local growers who are at warmer elevations than I start their garlic in the fall and say it needs the extra growing time. These may need the settling in time too. Trial and error is the best bet in these climates. I'm on a hillside and after 30+ years still marvel how some plants do well in one area but not 10-15 meters away. I think it's related to underground moisture. Good luck!
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Yikes, I thought I could grow Sunchokes in zone 5 and bought a few. What do I do now? Can I still plant them in sunny spot or eat and wait next year? Are they still good if they got soft? I forgot them in the garage for a week. Thanks!

- Tina

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This planting guide is a general reference intended for home gardeners. We recommend that you take into account your local conditions in making planting decisions. Gardenate is not a farming or commercial advisory service. For specific advice, please contact your local plant suppliers, gardening groups, or agricultural department. The information on this site is presented in good faith, but we take no responsibility as to the accuracy of the information provided.
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