Jerusalem Artichoke
Helianthus tuberosus (NOT to WA, TAS)
This hardy and tall perennial plant can reach heights of up to 3 meters and boasts yellow flowers similar to sunflowers. It thrives in any soil but prefers light, sandy soil with good fertility. It performs exceptionally well in temperate climates, sometimes becoming so prolific that some gardens consider it an 'edible weed'. It can still yield abundantly in warmer and humid regions, although it may not survive in the soil year after year.
In spring, it is recommended to plant the tuber directly. To do so, divide the tuber into 2 or 3 sections, ensuring each section has an 'eye'. Plant the tubers in rows 70-80cm apart, with a 25-30cm spacing between plants, and ensure they receive full sun. Mulching the plants well is advisable. Additionally, it is essential to provide an ample supply of potassium. This can be achieved using wood ash while avoiding high-nitrogen fertilisers, as they may promote top growth at the expense of root development. Tubers can be harvested 4 to 6 weeks after flowering for optimal yield. It is also beneficial to pinch off flower buds as they appear.
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