Sunchoke, also called Jerusalem artichoke (Helianthus tuberosus), is a tall sunflower relative grown for its knobby edible tubers. The University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture says plants reach 6 feet or taller, mature in about 120 days and can yield 50 to 100 tubers per 100 feet of row. They are easy to grow, but any tubers left in the ground regrow, so plan where they will live.
Jerusalem Artichoke (Sunchoke) at a glance
| Type | Vegetable |
|---|---|
| Season | Perennial |
| Sun | Full sun |
| Plant spacing | 27 in |
| Row spacing | 42 in |
| Per square foot | 1 |
| Seed depth | 2.5 in |
| Days to maturity | 120 from planting |
| How to start | Plant whole tubers in early spring, according to the University of Arkansas. |
| Water | 1 in per week |
These are the same numbers our plant spacing, square foot and harvest date calculators use. See every crop in the plant database.
When to plant sunchoke
Plant whole tubers in early spring, according to the University of Arkansas. Use the frost dates by ZIP code and planting calendar to time it.
How to plant sunchoke
- Plant 2 to 3 inches deep as whole tubers.
- Space 24 to 30 inches apart in rows 3 to 4 feet apart; use the plant spacing calculator.
- Choose full sun and warmth with deep, well-drained loam of medium to high fertility, especially potassium, pH 5.8 to 7.0.
Caring for sunchoke
Water as needed; see the garden watering calculator. Plants grow 6 feet or taller, so site them where they will not shade other crops.
Companion plants
| Grow nearby | Tall perennial borders and fence lines |
|---|---|
| Keep apart | Small vegetable beds where it can shade crops |
The Arkansas guide says the plant can persist as a weed and spread, so give it its own space. Check other pairings with the companion plant finder.
Common problems
| Problem | What you see | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Spreading | Plants returning where you did not plant them | Untharvested tubers regrow and can become troublesome; dig thoroughly each year. |
| Digestive upset | Gas after eating | Tubers contain inulin, which breaks down into fructose when eaten. Start with small portions. |
Not sure what you are looking at? The plant problem identifier ranks likely causes from the symptoms you see.
When and how to harvest
Harvest from September until spring, before new growth starts. Cut the woody tops off above ground first. Tubers lose moisture quickly; the Arkansas guide gives ideal storage at 32°F and 95% humidity, and tubers can be kept refrigerated in polyethylene bags.
Plan your sunchoke
- Plant spacing calculator: how many plants fit your bed
- Planting calendar: sowing and transplant dates for your frost dates
- Frost dates by ZIP code: your last spring and first fall frost
- Harvest date calculator: when your crop will be ready
Frequently asked questions
How far apart should I plant sunchokes?
Space sunchokes 27 inches apart in rows 42 inches apart. In a square foot garden, plant 1 per square foot.
How deep do I plant sunchoke tubers?
Plant whole sunchoke tubers 2 to 3 inches deep, 24 to 30 inches apart in rows 3 to 4 feet apart.
How long do sunchokes take to grow?
Sunchokes take about 120 days to mature and can be harvested from September until spring.
How much water do sunchokes need?
About 1 inch of water a week, from rain and watering combined. Water as needed through the season; they prefer well-drained soil.
Are sunchokes invasive?
They can persist as weeds and spread, since tubers left in the ground regrow, so many gardeners give them a dedicated bed.
When do I harvest sunchokes?
From September until spring, before new growth starts, after cutting the woody tops.
How do I store sunchokes?
Ideally at 32°F and 95% humidity; tubers lose moisture quickly but keep refrigerated in polyethylene bags.