Jerusalem Artichoke Companion Planting: A Guide for Gardeners
Introduction
Jerusalem artichokes, also known as sun chokes, are a type of sunflower that is grown for its edible tubers, not seeds. They are a perennial plant that can grow up to 8 feet tall and wide, and they are covered in small sunflower-like flowers throughout the summer. Jerusalem artichokes are a versatile plant that can be used for both ornamental and edible purposes. They attract pollinators, beneficial insects, and birds, and they can also be used as an aphid decoy plant.
Companion Planting Benefits
Companion planting is a gardening technique that involves planting different species of plants together to create a mutually beneficial relationship. Jerusalem artichokes can be beneficial companion plants for a variety of reasons.
- Provide shade: Jerusalem artichokes can provide shade for sensitive plants like cucumbers, lettuce, spinach, broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, and melons. This can help to protect these plants from the sun’s harsh rays and prevent them from wilting.
- Add nitrogen to the soil: Pole beans are beneficial companion plants for Jerusalem artichokes because they add nitrogen to the soil. Nitrogen is an essential nutrient for plant growth, and it can help to improve the overall health and productivity of your garden.
- Provide support: Jerusalem artichokes have sturdy stems that can provide support for climbing plants like cucumbers and pole beans. This can help to keep these plants upright and prevent them from falling over.
- Repel pests: Jerusalem artichokes can help to repel aphids, which are common pests in the garden. This can help to protect your other plants from these pests.
Companion Planting Considerations
While Jerusalem artichokes can be beneficial companion plants, there are a few things to keep in mind.
- Avoid planting near potatoes and tomatoes: Jerusalem artichokes can inhibit the growth of potatoes and tomatoes, so it is best to avoid planting them near these vegetables.
- Control growth: Jerusalem artichokes can become invasive if not kept in control. Be sure to plant them in a contained area or take steps to prevent them from spreading.
Companion Planting Ideas
There are a variety of plants that can be good companions for Jerusalem artichokes. Here are a few ideas:
Vegetables:
- Cucumbers
- Lettuce
- Spinach
- Broccoli
- Cauliflower
- Cabbage
- Melons
- Pole beans
- Peanuts
- Bush beans
Herbs:
- Chamomile
- Mint
- Lemon balm
- Lemongrass
- Chicory
- Borage
Flowers:
- Coneflower
- Rudbeckia
- Salvia
- Goldenrod
- Joe pyeweed
- Milkweed
- Aster
- Agastache
- Sunflower
- Gaillardia
- Tall phlox
- Lily
- Daylily
Conclusion
Jerusalem artichokes are a versatile plant that can be used for both ornamental and edible purposes. They are a good companion plant for a variety of other plants, and they can provide a number of benefits to your garden. By following the tips in this article, you can successfully companion plant Jerusalem artichokes to create a thriving and productive garden.
