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 New Zealand - cool/mountain 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 [email protected]
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.
Showing 231 - 240 of 301 comments

I could send you some - but pretty sure that’s not possible / legal from Victoria into QLD?

- Caroline

Please provide your email address if you are hoping for a reply


All comments are reviewed before displaying on the site, so your posting will not appear immediately

Gardenate App

Put GardenGrow in your pocket. Get our app for iPhone, iPad or Android to add your own plants and record your plantings and harvests

Planting Reminders

Join 60,000+ gardeners who already use GardenGrow and subscribe to the free GardenGrow planting reminders email newsletter.


Home | Vegetables and herbs to plant | Climate zones | About GardenGrow | Contact us | Privacy Policy

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. GardenGrow 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.
We cannot help if you are overrun by giant slugs.