How to Grow Artichokes: Jerusalem vs. Globe Varieties

Despite the shared name, Jerusalem and globe artichokes are unrelated. Jerusalem artichokes (sunflower family) are grown for tubers; globe artichokes produce edible ornamental flower buds—beautiful enough for flower borders.

Both need space and nutrient-rich, well-drained soil. Prepare the previous autumn with ample well-rotted manure/compost.

• Jerusalem: 3m tall—great windbreak. Tolerates light shade; prefers full sun.
• Globe: Stunning in herbaceous borders. Full sun essential. Plant at back to avoid shading smaller plants. Remains 5 years—exclude from crop rotation.

Planting

Jerusalem Artichokes

Plant tubers (not seeds) Feb–Mar, 15cm deep, 30cm apart, rows 1.5m apart. Top with general fertilizer.

Globe Artichokes

Plant rooted suckers (easier than seed) a month later. Rake in fertilizer. Plant at pot depth, 1m apart. Each yields up to 12 heads—1–2 plants suffice.

Growing Care

• Jerusalem: Earth up at 30cm tall (draw soil 15cm up stems) for support. Stake in windy sites.
• Globe: Water in dry spells. Mulch in May for moisture retention and weed control.

First-Year Globe Care

Keep well-watered. Remove flower buds to build strong crown for next year. Cut dead leaves in autumn to reveal new shoots. In cold areas, winter-protect with straw, manure, or compost.

Jerusalem Maintenance

Leafy growth suppresses weeds. Hand-weed if needed. Water in dry spells. Autumn dieback: cut to 10cm when foliage yellows. Prunings mulch the bed or compost.

Harvest

• Jerusalem: Late autumn through winter, as needed. Remove every tuber if not replanting—leftovers resprout.
• Globe: Year 2+, July–Oct. Cut top bud at golf-ball size (before opening) with secateurs, leaving stem attached for flavor. Harvest side buds as they mature.

---

Thanks for reading! Visit our blog for more. —GraftinGardeners