Where to Buy Jerusalem Artichoke Plants: A Guide to the Best Sources

Jerusalem Artichokes: The Ultimate Guide to Growing and Eating

Jerusalem artichokes (Helianthus tuberosus) are a unique and delicious root vegetable that is gaining popularity in home gardens. They are also known as sunchokes, and are a member of the sunflower family. Jerusalem artichokes are easy to grow, and they are a great source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They can be eaten raw, roasted, or steamed, and they make a delicious addition to soups, salads, and stews.

In this guide, we will discuss everything you need to know about growing and eating Jerusalem artichokes. We will cover topics such as:

  • Where to buy Jerusalem artichoke plants
  • How to grow Jerusalem artichokes
  • How to harvest and store Jerusalem artichokes
  • How to cook Jerusalem artichokes
  • Jerusalem artichoke nutrition and health benefits

So if you’re ready to learn more about this amazing root vegetable, read on!

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Gardeners.com $6.99 $5.99
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Seed Savers Exchange $5.00 $4.00

Jerusalem artichokes (Helianthus tuberosus) are a perennial plant that is native to North America. They are also known as sunchokes, earth apples, and topinambur. Jerusalem artichokes are grown for their edible tubers, which are similar in appearance to potatoes but have a slightly sweet flavor. They are a good source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber.

Jerusalem artichokes can be grown from seed or from tubers. They are relatively easy to grow, but they do require a long growing season. Jerusalem artichokes are best grown in full sun in well-drained soil. They are drought tolerant and can tolerate a wide range of soil pH levels.

Jerusalem artichokes are a versatile crop that can be used in a variety of dishes. They can be roasted, boiled, steamed, fried, or pickled. They can also be used in soups, salads, and stews.

If you are interested in growing Jerusalem artichokes, you can purchase them from online retailers or local nurseries.

Online Retailers

There are a number of online retailers that sell Jerusalem artichoke plants. Some of the most popular retailers include:

  • Burpee
  • Johnny’s Selected Seeds
  • Park Seed
  • Seedsman
  • True Leaf Market

When purchasing Jerusalem artichoke plants online, it is important to choose a reputable retailer. You should also make sure to read the product description carefully to ensure that the plants are the right size and variety for your needs.

Here are some of the pros and cons of buying Jerusalem artichoke plants online:

Pros:

  • Convenience: You can order Jerusalem artichoke plants online and have them delivered to your door. This is a great option if you do not have access to a local nursery that sells Jerusalem artichoke plants.
  • Variety: Online retailers offer a wide variety of Jerusalem artichoke plants to choose from. You can find plants of different sizes, varieties, and colors.
  • Price: Online retailers often offer Jerusalem artichoke plants at a lower price than local nurseries.

Cons:

  • Shipping costs: You may have to pay shipping costs when you order Jerusalem artichoke plants online.
  • Delivery time: It may take a few days or weeks for your Jerusalem artichoke plants to arrive.
  • Damaged plants: There is a risk that your Jerusalem artichoke plants will be damaged during shipping.

Tips for buying Jerusalem artichoke plants online:

  • Choose a reputable retailer. Read reviews of the retailer before you order to make sure that they have a good reputation.
  • Read the product description carefully. Make sure that the plants are the right size and variety for your needs.
  • Consider the shipping costs. If you are ordering a large number of plants, you may want to consider ordering them from a local nursery to avoid shipping costs.
  • Be prepared for delivery delays. It may take a few days or weeks for your Jerusalem artichoke plants to arrive.
  • Check the plants for damage when they arrive. If the plants are damaged, contact the retailer immediately.

Local Nurseries

In addition to online retailers, you can also purchase Jerusalem artichoke plants from local nurseries. Some of the benefits of buying Jerusalem artichoke plants from a local nursery include:

  • Convenience: You can visit a local nursery and purchase Jerusalem artichoke plants in person. This is a great option if you are not sure what type of Jerusalem artichoke plants you want or if you need help choosing the right plants for your needs.
  • Variety: Local nurseries often offer a wide variety of Jerusalem artichoke plants to choose from. You can find plants of different sizes, varieties, and colors.
  • Expertise: Local nurseries often have staff members who are knowledgeable about Jerusalem artichoke plants. They can help you choose the right plants for your needs and answer any questions you may have.

Here are some of the pros and cons of buying Jerusalem artichoke plants from a local nursery:

Pros:

  • Convenience: You can visit a local nursery and purchase Jerusalem artichoke plants in person.
  • Variety: Local nurseries often offer a wide variety of Jerusalem artichoke plants to choose from.
  • Expertise: Local nurseries often have staff members who are knowledgeable about Jerusalem artichoke plants.

Cons:

  • Price: Local nurseries often charge more for Jerusalem artichoke plants than online retailers.
  • Limited selection: Local nurseries may not have as large of a selection of Jerusalem artichoke plants as online retailers.
  • Uninformed staff: Local nurseries may not have staff members who are knowledgeable about Jerusalem artichoke plants.

Tips for buying Jerusalem artichoke plants from a local nursery:

  • Visit the nursery in person before you buy. This will give you a chance to see the plants in person and talk to the staff about their care.

3. Growing Jerusalem Artichokes from Seed

How to grow Jerusalem artichokes from seed

Jerusalem artichokes (Helianthus tuberosus) are a perennial plant that is native to North America. They are grown for their edible tubers, which are similar in appearance to potatoes. Jerusalem artichokes are easy to grow from seed, and they can be started indoors or outdoors.

To start Jerusalem artichokes indoors, you will need:

  • Jerusalem artichoke seeds
  • Seed starting mix
  • Small pots or seedling trays
  • Water

1. Fill the seed starting mix into the pots or seedling trays.
2. Sow the seeds about 1 inch apart in the seed starting mix.
3. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of seed starting mix.
4. Water the seeds well.
5. Place the pots or seedling trays in a warm, sunny location.

The seeds will germinate in about 2-4 weeks. Once the seedlings have sprouted, you can thin them out so that they are about 4 inches apart.

To start Jerusalem artichokes outdoors, you will need:

  • Jerusalem artichoke seeds
  • A sunny location
  • Well-drained soil

1. Prepare the soil by digging it up and removing any rocks or debris.
2. Sow the seeds about 1 inch apart in the soil.
3. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil.
4. Water the seeds well.

The seeds will germinate in about 2-4 weeks. Once the seedlings have sprouted, you can thin them out so that they are about 4 inches apart.

Tips for growing Jerusalem artichokes from seed

  • Jerusalem artichokes prefer full sun, but they can tolerate partial shade.
  • They grow best in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
  • Jerusalem artichokes are drought tolerant, but they will produce more tubers if they are watered regularly.
  • Jerusalem artichokes are susceptible to pests and diseases, but they can be treated with organic pesticides and fungicides.

Problems that can occur when growing Jerusalem artichokes from seed

  • Jerusalem artichokes can be attacked by pests such as aphids, beetles, and borers.
  • They can also be infected by diseases such as powdery mildew and rust.
  • If the Jerusalem artichokes are not watered regularly, they may develop wilting or root rot.

4. Transplanting Jerusalem Artichokes

When to transplant Jerusalem artichokes

Jerusalem artichokes can be transplanted outdoors once the soil has warmed up and the danger of frost has passed. This is usually in late spring or early summer.

How to transplant Jerusalem artichokes

1. Dig a hole in the ground that is about twice the size of the root ball of the Jerusalem artichoke.
2. Gently remove the Jerusalem artichoke from the pot or seedling tray.
3. Place the Jerusalem artichoke in the hole so that the crown is level with the soil.
4. Backfill the hole with soil and water it well.

Problems that can occur when transplanting Jerusalem artichokes

  • Jerusalem artichokes can be damaged if they are transplanted too early or too late.
  • They can also be damaged if they are not transplanted properly.
  • If the Jerusalem artichokes are not watered properly after transplanting, they may wilt or die.

    Q: Where can I buy Jerusalem artichoke plants?

A: Jerusalem artichoke plants are available for purchase from a variety of online retailers and garden centers. When shopping for Jerusalem artichoke plants, it is important to choose a reputable seller that offers healthy, vigorous plants.

Q: What are the different varieties of Jerusalem artichoke plants?

A: There are a variety of different Jerusalem artichoke plants available, each with its own unique characteristics. Some of the most popular varieties include:

  • ‘Gros Vert de Laon’ is a large, vigorous variety that produces large, flavorful tubers.
  • ‘Mammut’ is a high-yielding variety that produces long, cylindrical tubers.
  • ‘Russet Burbank’ is a early-maturing variety that produces small, round tubers.

Q: How do I plant Jerusalem artichoke plants?

A: Jerusalem artichoke plants are easy to grow and can be planted in a variety of soil conditions. However, they do best in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Jerusalem artichoke plants should be planted in full sun or partial shade.

To plant Jerusalem artichoke plants, dig a hole that is twice the width and depth of the root ball. Place the root ball in the hole and fill in the hole with soil. Water the plants well after planting.

Q: How do I care for Jerusalem artichoke plants?

Jerusalem artichoke plants are relatively low-maintenance and require little care. However, there are a few things you can do to help your plants thrive:

  • Water your plants regularly, especially during dry periods.
  • Fertilize your plants with a balanced fertilizer once per year.
  • Mulch around your plants to help keep the soil moist and cool.
  • Remove any dead or diseased leaves from your plants.

Q: When do Jerusalem artichokes grow?

Jerusalem artichokes are a perennial plant that grows from spring to fall. The plants produce flowers in the summer and the tubers are ready to harvest in the fall.

Q: How do I harvest Jerusalem artichokes?

Jerusalem artichokes are harvested by digging up the tubers with a fork or shovel. The tubers should be harvested when they are firm and plump. To store Jerusalem artichokes, place them in a cool, dry place.

Q: How do I cook Jerusalem artichokes?

Jerusalem artichokes can be cooked in a variety of ways. Some of the most popular ways to cook Jerusalem artichokes include:

  • Boiling
  • Steaming
  • Roasting
  • Sauteing
  • Baking

Jerusalem artichokes can be added to soups, stews, salads, and other dishes. They can also be eaten on their own as a healthy snack.

Jerusalem artichokes are a unique and versatile crop that can be grown in a variety of climates. They are a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, and they can be used in a variety of dishes. When choosing Jerusalem artichoke plants, it is important to consider the climate, soil type, and spacing requirements. The best place to buy Jerusalem artichoke plants is from a reputable nursery or garden center. With proper care, Jerusalem artichokes can be a rewarding addition to any garden.

Here are some key takeaways for growing Jerusalem artichokes:

  • Jerusalem artichokes are a hardy crop that can be grown in a variety of climates.
  • They are a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
  • Jerusalem artichokes can be used in a variety of dishes.
  • When choosing Jerusalem artichoke plants, it is important to consider the climate, soil type, and spacing requirements.
  • The best place to buy Jerusalem artichoke plants is from a reputable nursery or garden center.

Author Profile

Arthur Cook
Arthur Cook
Meet Arthur Cook, the heart and soul behind Plant4Harvest.com. Arthur’s story is deeply rooted in the rich soil of a small American town, where the horizon is wide, and the values of hard work and connection to the land run deep. Born and raised in the quaint town of Elkmont, Alabama, Arthur’s journey in agriculture began in the sprawling fields of his family’s farm, a stone’s throw away from the Tennessee border.

Arthur’s thirst for agricultural knowledge led him to Auburn University, where he majored in Agricultural Science. During his college years, Arthur dedicated his summers to working on local farms, gaining practical experience in modern farming techniques. His academic and real-world experiences combined to give him a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities in American agriculture.

Arthur Cook is more than just a farmer; he is an advocate for sustainable agriculture and a mentor to the next generation of farmers. Through Plant4Harvest.com, he continues to inspire, educate, and engage with a community of individuals who share his love for the land and commitment to preserving it for future generations.