How to grow Jerusalem artichokes in a raised bed

Jerusalem artichokes (sunchokes) are the easiest crop you'll ever grow — knobbly, nutty tubers on tall sunflower-like plants that all but grow themselves. So easy, in fact, that a raised bed is the perfect way to keep them in bounds.

Quick facts

• Position: full sun
• Spacing: 30–40 cm apart
• Tub depth: our 41 cm depth
• Time to harvest: 5–6 months

When to plant: Plant tubers in late winter to spring. They're hardy perennials that return from any tuber left behind — a raised bed helps contain their enthusiastic spread. Our free planting calendar shows the right months for your postcode.

Growing it in a raised bed: Plant tubers into any reasonable mix and stand back — the tall stems reach 2–3 m and bear cheerful yellow flowers. Give them a bed where their spreading won't be a nuisance.

Watering and feeding: Water through summer for a good crop, though they're very drought-hardy once established.

Common pests: keep an eye out for aphids. Most are easily managed — see our safe pest guide.

Common diseases: the main ones are powdery mildew. Good airflow, morning watering and steady moisture prevent most.

Companion plants: Grow them at the back where their height won't shade other crops; contain them to one bed. See our companion planting guide.

Harvest and storage: Dig the tubers after the tops die down in autumn and through winter. Leave a few in and they'll grow again — whether you want them to or not.

More growing guides: globe artichokes, sweet potato and potatoes.

Plan your patch: our free planting calendar shows what to plant now where you live. Ready to grow? Browse our raised garden beds or build your own with the garden bed builder.

Image: Jamplevia, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.