---
title: How to plant Jerusalem Artichoke in March
description: Learn how to successfully plant Jerusalem artichokes in March for a bountiful harvest. Follow our step-by-step guide for optimal growth and yield.
---

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# [How to plant Jerusalem Artichoke in March](https://www.theonlinegardencenter.com/how-to-garden/how-to-plant-jerusalem-artichoke-in-march)

 Written by [Mark Foley](https://www.theonlinegardencenter.com/how-to-garden/author/mark-foley) | 3/23/26 12:44 AM

## How to plant Jerusalem artichokes in March

Jerusalem artichokes are easy-to-grow, hardy tubers that produce tall plants and abundant harvests later in the year. Planting in March gives them a long growing season, resulting in better yields and stronger plants.

They are ideal for low-maintenance growing and can thrive in a wide range of conditions.

## Quick answer: how to plant Jerusalem artichokes

To plant Jerusalem artichokes, place tubers 10–15cm deep in well-drained soil, space them well apart, and grow in full sun. Water after planting and allow plants plenty of room, as they grow tall and spread.

## Step-by-step guide to planting Jerusalem artichokes

Step 1: Choose the right location

- Select a **sunny or lightly shaded spot**
- Allow space for tall growth (up to 2–3m)
- Consider positioning at the back of beds

Step 2: Prepare the soil

- Loosen soil to around **20–30cm depth**
- Remove large stones and weeds
- Add compost if soil is poor

Step 3: Plant the tubers

- Plant tubers **10–15cm deep**
- Space **30–50cm apart**
- Space rows around **60–90cm apart**

Step 4: Cover and water

- Backfill with soil and firm lightly
- Water well after planting
- Keep soil slightly moist during establishment

Step 5: Support and manage growth

- Add support if exposed to wind
- Earth up soil around stems as they grow
- Cut back if plants become too tall

## When to plant Jerusalem artichokes

Jerusalem artichokes are best planted:

- In **early to mid-spring (March onwards)**
- When soil is workable and not frozen
- Before active growth begins

They establish quickly once planted.

## Best varieties

- Fuseau 
    - Smooth, easy-to-prepare tubers
    - Good yield and flavour
- Red Fuseau 
    - Slightly nuttier taste
    - Attractive red skin
- Waldspindel 
    - High yielding
    - Good resistance to disease

Choose based on **yield, flavour, and ease of preparation**.

## Ideal growing conditions

- Light 
    - Full sun preferred
- Soil 
    - Tolerant of most soils
    - Best in well-drained ground
- Water 
    - Low maintenance once established
    - Water during prolonged dry periods
- Feeding 
    - Not heavy feeders
    - Compost at planting is usually sufficient

## Common problems

Uncontrolled spreading

- Cause: tubers left in ground
- Fix: harvest thoroughly and manage spread

Tall plants falling over

- Cause: wind exposure
- Fix: stake or plant in sheltered areas

Small tubers

- Cause: poor soil or overcrowding
- Fix: improve soil and space properly

Knobbly tubers

- Natural characteristic
- Choose smoother varieties like Fuseau if preferred

## Climate and regional notes

UK & Ireland

- Plant from March when soil is workable
- Very reliable and hardy crop

Europe

- Suitable across most regions
- Earlier planting possible in milder climates

USA

- Plant in early spring after soil can be worked
- Thrives in a wide range of climates

## Pro tips for better results

- Plant in a contained area to control spread
- Harvest after frost for improved flavour
- Leave some tubers if you want plants to return
- Cut back stems in autumn
- Rotate planting areas if possible

## FAQs: planting Jerusalem artichokes

**When should I plant Jerusalem artichokes**  
From March onwards, once the soil is workable.

**How deep should I plant the tubers**  
Around 10–15cm deep.

**Do Jerusalem artichokes spread**  
Yes, they can spread easily if not fully harvested.

**Do they need full sun**  
They grow best in full sun but tolerate light shade.

**How tall do they grow**  
Up to 2–3 metres in height.

**Can I grow them in containers**  
Yes, but large containers are needed due to size.

**When are they ready to harvest**  
Typically from late autumn onwards.

**Do they need a lot of water**  
No, they are relatively drought tolerant once established.

**Are they easy to grow**  
Yes, they are one of the easiest root crops to grow.

**Do they come back every year**  
Yes, if tubers are left in the ground, they will regrow.

[View full post](https://www.theonlinegardencenter.com/how-to-garden/how-to-plant-jerusalem-artichoke-in-march)

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