Jerusalem artichokes, also known as sunchokes, are a great addition to any UK garden or allotment. They are a hardy perennial root vegetable that can be easily grown in a variety of UK climates. In this blog post, we will cover the types of Jerusalem artichokes that are best for growing in the UK, how to grow them, as well as the pros and cons of growing Jerusalem artichokes in the UK.
Types of Jerusalem Artichokes
There are several different types of Jerusalem artichokes that can be grown in the UK, each with its own unique flavor and texture. Here are some of the most common types of Jerusalem artichokes that you can grow in your UK garden:
Fuseau: This is the most common type of Jerusalem artichoke and has a uniform shape and size. It has a slightly sweet flavor and is great for roasting or frying.
Red Fuseau: This variety has a reddish-brown skin and a creamy white flesh. It has a slightly nutty flavor and is often used in salads or as a garnish.
White Fuseau: This variety has a smooth, white skin and a slightly sweet flavor. It is often used in soups or purees.
How to Grow Jerusalem Artichokes in the UK
Jerusalem artichokes are a hardy perennial that are easy to grow in the UK. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to grow Jerusalem artichokes in your UK garden:
Choose a sunny spot in your garden with well-draining soil.
Plant Jerusalem artichoke tubers in the soil, about 3 to 4 inches deep and 12 to 18 inches apart.
Water the Jerusalem artichokes regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Mulch around the plants to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Fertilize the Jerusalem artichokes with a balanced fertilizer every few weeks.
Harvest the Jerusalem artichokes in the fall, after the tops have died back. Dig up the tubers with a garden fork or shovel.
Pros and Cons of Growing Jerusalem Artichokes in the UK
Like any other vegetable, there are pros and cons to growing Jerusalem artichokes in the UK. Here are some of the main advantages and disadvantages of growing Jerusalem artichokes in the UK:
Pros:
Nutritious: Jerusalem artichokes are a good source of fiber, potassium, and iron.
Easy to grow: Jerusalem artichokes are hardy and require minimal care and maintenance in the UK climate.
Unique flavor: Jerusalem artichokes have a nutty and slightly sweet flavor that is different from other root vegetables.
Perennial crop: Jerusalem artichokes are a perennial crop that will come back year after year.
Cons:
Invasive: Jerusalem artichokes can be invasive and difficult to control in the UK. They can spread quickly and take over a garden if not kept in check.
Knobby appearance: Jerusalem artichokes have a knobby, irregular shape that may not be visually appealing to some people.
Gas-producing: Jerusalem artichokes contain a type of carbohydrate that can cause gas and bloating in some people.
In conclusion, growing Jerusalem artichokes in your UK garden or allotment can be a great way to add a unique and flavorful root vegetable to your diet. With the right growing conditions and care, Jerusalem artichokes can provide a perennial crop that is easy to grow and harvest in the UK climate. However, it is important to be aware of the potential invasive nature of Jerusalem artichokes and to take steps to control their spread.