Jerusalem Artichockes

[RDRANCH]

Is it unusual for Jerusalem Artichokes to not be in bloom yet?

I got one plant last year from my mother in law and planted in a raised bed. Due to several circumstances last year there really wasn't a garden in that area but the plant did get water when I remembered.

Early last spring while getting thins ready for a garden this year i dug up nine thumb sized pieces of root and replanted them in the 3'x4' bed.

I know these plants thirve under poor conditions, but have I been doing something bad by keeping them watered, weeded and fed? The plants are approaching seven feet tall but no blooms.

Is it time for some tuff love?

 

[wifezilla]

I am also in Colorado and mine didn't bloom either. Mine are shaded though. What is the sun situation at your place?

Mine has been going in a patch for years. I never harvest. They just keep an otherwise bare spot a bit green.

 

[hoodat]

They bloom best late Summer to early Fall. Giving them regular garden care will only make them thrive more. They can stand a lot of neglect but appreciate care.

 

[RDRANCH]

They are mostly in full sun but are shaded a little in the morning and in the evening. I guess it's everything else in this years garden, a little on the slow side to develope.

Thanks for the input!

 

[RDRANCH]

Well 3 weeks later there are blooms starting to form and the plants are nine feet tall! Can't wait to see to tubers this fall!

 

[hoodat]

The birds will also appreciate the seeds. It's a native American plant related to the sunflower.

 

[RDRANCH]

Thats good to know as we have been bone dry in the rain department and they have already eaten all the crabapples and everything else that looks good. I wonder if this means we are going to have a cold snowy winter. We are due for it!

 

[GPN]

Post some pictures please, now of the plant and later for the flower please!

 

[damummis]

Here is a pic of my plants that shade the coops.