Topic: Jerusalem Artichokes

[Marianne]

When I used to live abroad, I used to eat the heads of the artichoke. 

I would boil it and make a separate vinaigrette. 

Then let the artichoke cool down and dip the leaves into the vinaigrette - Luuuuuuurvely ! :D :P

[Mrs Ava]

Jerusalem or globe Marianne?  They are two different beasts.  The globe is the one that produces that glorious big thistle like flower, the jerusalem produces those tuberous roots.

[Marianne]

Hi EJ,

Mine was the globe.  Extensively consumed in Belgium and delicious !

[chrispea27]

Once you have them you will never get rid!

[Marianne]

Why Chrispea, do they put out a large rooting system?

[David R]

Marianne, they produce lots of tubers, some of which invariably get left in the ground after harvesting. These then sprout forming new plants. The rule with these lovely beauties is to ensure you have every piece of root and tuber out before spring.  Alternatively, if you are not using the bed for something till later in the year, any tubers left will identify themselves by sprouting, then you can dig them up.

I am a total fan and recommend them to all.

[Anne Robertson]

When are the tubers ready for digging up and eating?
I have some but have never done anything with them and going by what you've all said I should be eating and enjoying them.

[Marianne]

Hi David R

Thanks for your response.  I love them too.  Not only for the pot but also in the border where they look fabulous!!

I will try and get some to plant this year.

 :D

[Lizard Man]

Ani,

They can be dug up and eaten pretty much anytime, but you should wait until the plants have started to die back in September to reap the benefits properly. They can last in the ground over winter and still be dug up and eaten at the end of winter/early spring. I have even eaten tubers that have begun to sprout with no ill effects (excepting the one that has been much debated above!).