Jerusalem artichoke is not only suitable for beds. The vegetables also look good planted in pots. However, the optimal pot size is decisive for the success of the harvest.
Topinambur is a large perennial with sunflower-like flowers in mind. It's hard to imagine that you can also plant them in pots, right? But that's exactly how it is. So terrace or balcony owners do not have to do without the delicious vegetables. On the contrary, planting in a pot even has the advantage that the plant does not spread so much.
Jerusalem artichoke is in itself very easy to care for and undemanding, but if you want to plant the plant, which is also often called earth artichoke, in a pot, there are a few things to consider. The pot size is particularly important for optimal development.
Which pot goes with the Jerusalem artichoke?
Unlike strawberries, herbs and types of lettuce, the Jerusalem artichoke needs enough space. The plant forms a magnificent perennial with yellow flowers during growth, which can be an ideal privacy screen. But plants that grow as perennials cannot be placed in an ordinary flower pot. Not only can the roots not find space, but the balance cannot be established during growth.
Therefore, for the potted vegetables:
- Flower tubs are particularly suitable
- The bucket needs a diameter of 35 centimeters
- Each plant needs its own bucket
- The bucket should be heavy or additionally weighted
This is how Jerusalem artichokes grow in pots
As an undemanding vegetable plant, the Jerusalem artichoke can cope with various conditions. If it has enough space and does not dry out, it will grow from spring to autumn. Unharvested, it is a hardy plant that dies, but will sprout again in spring. However, the vegetable makes some demands. The soil in the bucket should have some sand and provide enough nutrients. If possible, mix topsoil with sand and compost so that you can get through the summer without additional fertilizer.
For planting, simply place a tuber in each pot andcover them with a layer of soil about 10 centimeters thick. Water the soil and keep it constantly moist. Only waterlogging must not form, as it causes the tuber to rot.
Select a sunny or semi-shady place for the location. If you garden in the urban area and plant Jerusalem artichokes on the balcony, you should ensure good stability and, if necessary, fix the bucket with stones. The plant could fall over in a strong wind, especially on balconies on upper floors, as it cannot develop the same roots in the bucket as in the garden.