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Jerusalem artichoke was considered a delicacy in Paris in the 17th century. Subsequently, the root vegetable was replaced by the potato, but it is now experiencing an upswing. Cultivation requires little effort and yields are high for this prolific plant.
Jerusalem artichokes are harvested in late autumn or winter
Garden season and growth characteristics
Jerusalem artichoke is a typical winter vegetable that is in season from October to March. The roots taste particularly aromatic after the effects of frost and can be harvested in the garden from autumn to spring. To make harvesting easier, you should cover the ground with straw and brushwood. This will prevent the top layer of soil from freezing.
Jerusalem artichoke varieties:
- early varieties: 'Giant', 'Bianca' and 'Henriette'
- medium late breeds: 'Forest Spindle', 'Medius' and 'Topianka'
- late breeds: 'Dornburger', 'Landsort Rot' and Violet de Rennes
development
The sunflower species develops an annual shoot that can branch out. The crop flowers from August to November, although the exact date varies depending on the region. In southern countries the daisy family does not flower until October, while in Central Europe the flowering period begins in August. The short-day plant develops flowers as soon as the length of the day falls below a certain limit.
tuber growth
From July to August, the plant invests its energy in the development of underground tubers that serve as carbohydrate stores. After flowering, the above-ground part of the plant dies in autumn. The rhizomes overwinter and sprout again next spring.
Expectations
Although Jerusalem artichoke is considered undemanding, its growth rate depends heavily on the location. Nutrient-poor soils are just as suitable for cultivation as rich substrates. A loose and slightly sandy soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5, which does not tend to waterlogging, provides optimal growth conditions.
The crops gratefully accept full sun, although they also thrive in semi-shade. The above-ground parts of the plant tolerate low frosts in the single-digit minus range, while the rhizomes lying in the ground are not damaged even at -30 degrees.
Harvest properly and increase yields
Depending on the region, the main growth of the tubers occurs from July to October. You can harvest the root vegetables between the time when the old shoots die and the new shoots appear in spring. The harvest window extends from November to April. To make harvesting easier, cut the stems down to the ground after the leaves have withered.
Tips for a good harvest
To ensure that the fresh shoots get enough light, remove weeds regularly in spring. In the later stage of development, this measure no longer plays a role, since Jerusalem artichoke grows vigorously and crowds out other plants. By removing the flowers, the plant has an excess of energy, which makes the bulbs grow by about a gram. During the growing season you should not shorten the green parts of the plant, as this reduces the crop yield. Additional fertilizers on nutrient-poor soils increase the harvest.