How to Grow Jerusalem Artichoke in New Zealand
Plant tubers in late winter to early spring; incredibly easy to grow. WARNING: it spreads aggressively, so plant in a contained bed or large pot. The tall sunflower-like plants make a good summer windbreak, and any tuber left in the ground will regrow.
When to plant jerusalem artichoke in New Zealand
Timing is everything in New Zealand, where the warm north and the cooler south are weeks apart. Sow or plant in these months for your region:
| Region | When to sow or plant |
|---|---|
| Northland | January, February, March, April, August, September, October |
| Auckland | January, February, March, April, August, September, October |
| Waikato & BoP | January, February, March, April, August, September, October |
| Wellington | January, February, March, April, August, September, October |
| Nelson & Marlborough | January, February, March, April, August, September, October |
| Canterbury | January, February, March, April, August, September, October |
| Otago & Southland | January, February, March, April, August, September, October |
| Central Otago | January, February, March, April, August, September, October |
Best jerusalem artichoke varieties for NZ
- Fuseau — Smoother tubers, easier to peel than knobbly types. French variety, good flavour. (Kings Seeds, local nurseries)
- Dwarf Sunray — More compact plants at 1.5m. Good for smaller gardens. White-skinned tubers. (Kings Seeds)
How to grow jerusalem artichoke
- Space plants about 40cm apart.
- Sow seed around 10cm deep.
- Position: full sun.
- Ready to harvest in roughly 150 days.
- Seeds germinate in about 14 days.
Companion planting
Grow jerusalem artichoke near: Corn, Beans, Sunflower.
Pests and problems
Watch for: Slugs. See our NZ pest and disease guide for organic control.
For a calendar tuned to your exact region, see the New Zealand planting guides or the Jerusalem Artichoke plant page.
FAQ
When is the best time to plant jerusalem artichoke in New Zealand?
In the warm north (Auckland, Northland) sow in January, February, March, April, August, September, October. Cooler regions plant a little later. Check the table above for your region.
Where can I buy jerusalem artichoke seeds or plants in NZ?
Try Kings Seeds, local nurseries.