Jerusalem artichokes

Runnerbean · « **on:** October 29, 2008, 22:38 »

I have just been given about 20 small Jerusalem artichoke tubers and am wondering where to put them on my plot. I know they grow to about 6 - 7 feet and need support. I would ideally like to use them as a windbreak at the end of my plot as i am halfway down the hill and it does get a bit blowy down there sometimes!!!!
How thick do i need to plant them, and has anyone else used them for this purpose?

babe · « **Reply #1 on:** October 29, 2008, 22:41 »

i dont know, but they do make a lovely soup with watercress...mmmmm

Aidy · « **Reply #2 on:** October 30, 2008, 08:55 »

The first thing to remember about these, they spread like mad so first thoughts would be to ensure if you don't want them every where they need to be contained, I dug boarding down the edge of the bed to stop them. They will get pretty thick if you leave them for a season and then harvest.

allstars_princess · « **Reply #3 on:** October 30, 2008, 12:53 »

Also to note. Mine are nearer to 8/9 feet than the 6/7 I thought and do cast a lot of shade. Try to plant them so as they do not cause other crops any reduction.

They do spread like crazy so the trench bed is worth doing.

Good luck, they are delicious.

paintedlady · « **Reply #4 on:** October 30, 2008, 13:42 »

And finally

I personally don't think they make good windbreaks as they "topple over" being so tall when the wind catches them. I always seem to have a few that have ended up needing a bit of support :roll:

Runnerbean · « **Reply #5 on:** October 30, 2008, 20:16 »

I won't have a problem with shade, and they will be contained in a 10' x 3' bed (i have loads of boards left to make sure they don't spread anywhere). I will also support them to about 7' so i cant see any reason why they won't do the job i want them to.
I think i will give it a go, i'll let you know how i get on.

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