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| Jerusalem Artichoke |
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Jerusalem Artichoke is grown for its tubers as opposed to the flowers heads of the Globe artichoke
It is an easily grown plant, and can reach a height of 2-3 metres (7-10ft).
They thrive in any ordinary, well-drained soil, in sun or partial shade.
No feeding or manuring is required as this will encourage the growth of foliage at the expense of tubers.
The bed should be away from other crops as the tall plants overshadow and restrict growth of nearby crops.
The plants are easier to keep under control if they are treated as an annual crop, and if all tubers are removed from the ground at the end of the season.
Week 8; Plant the tubers 400mm (15") apart and 125 mm (5") deep around (if ground conditions allow).
Select small tubers, with at least one eye for planting out.
Rows should be 1 metre apart (39")
Week 32; Give the plants a good soaking and apply an occasional liquid feed.
Removal of the growing tips along with flower buds will also help to direct the plant's energy into tuber production.
In exposed positions, support the plants, by stretching wires between posts at a height of about 2metres (6'6") to prevent stems rocking developing tubers out of the ground.
Lift the tubers when they have matured. This is indicated when the top growth begins to turn brown.
The tubers may be lifted and stored in a clamp, but they keep their flavour and firm texture better if left in the ground until required.
Save the small tubers for spring planting.
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