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 South Africa - Dry summer sub-tropical 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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01 Jun 19, karyn (Australia - temperate climate)
was thinking about harvesting mine too today would love some feedback on this xX
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15 Sep 23, Mike Labuschagne (South Africa - Summer rainfall climate)
It is recommended to leave the tubers in the soil, they will grow by themselves when the climate allows them to.
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16 Oct 18, Catherine (South Africa - Dry summer sub-tropical climate)
In answer to those seeking advice about where to buy Jerusalem artichokes in Cape Town: I bought some Jerusalem artichokes at the Vineyard Deli, Kenridge, chopped them into small pieces and planted them in a large wooden container. The plants are now (October) about 50 cm high and not flowering yet, but looking extremely green and sturdy.
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20 Oct 18, Stacey Robinson (South Africa - Dry summer sub-tropical climate)
I also found Jerusalem Artichoke plants at Ferndale Nurseries in Constantia, Cape Town!
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09 Apr 18, Dehlia Esterhuizen (South Africa - Dry summer sub-tropical climate)
Would like to know if Sheena Ridley (3 Aug 2017) still have Jerusalem Artichoke tubers and the cost please. Or anybody else knowing where to buy for cooking
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17 Mar 18, Jonita Venter (South Africa - Dry summer sub-tropical climate)
I am in the Somerset West, Cape province area and want to buy the bulb or the plant. you do not get it in stores or at nurseries. Is it possible that you can provide me with the information please. Regards Jonita.
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26 Feb 18, Mike (South Africa - Summer rainfall climate)
I am looking for Jerusalem artichokes bulbs for planting. In the Elgin Valley. Somerset nearby. Please email - thanks, mike
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07 Nov 17, Linda Swanborough (South Africa - Summer rainfall climate)
Where can I buy them in the Sandton, Fourways area? Thanks
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08 Feb 18, Astrid (South Africa - Semi-arid climate)
Not sure if you have come right yet, but if not... Jerusalem artichokes will probably not be on sale until the end of the season - at the moment they are putting all the energy into the flower and won't be of a quality to sell. You can keep an eye on www.seedsforafrica.co.za and www.theseedvault.co.za, both of these sites usually have tubers available when in season.
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23 Jul 17, Joemarie Rowe (South Africa - Summer rainfall climate)
I am staying in Oudtshoorn, Western Cape, where can i buy some seeds of Jerusalem Artichokes. Thank you. Have a great day
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Showing 11 - 20 of 43 comments
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I just harvested the jerusalem artichoke that we planted last spring. The flowers were done but the plant was still alive. I have lots of small tubers and thick root with sprouts. Is all this OK to cook and eat?

- Cindy

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