Jerusalem Artichokes in pots

[pat pierce]

Last year I planted Jerusalem artichokes in pots for the first time. I am growing as many root knot nematode susceptible plants in pots as possible  over 2 years to eradicate the spread of this pest in my vegetable garden. I planted single corms in 10 liter pots and today harvested the first one.  They have been situated under a tree so received 50-60% shade. The pot produced 540 grams of tubers. Has anyone else grown JA in pots. I am thinking that if the other 4 pots have produced as well i will replant in ten, 10 litre pots as a crop  as the amount  produced is a good size for my family meals and 10 serves would meet my needs.

I use a fairly standard potting mix made from composted wood-chip, composted chicken and cow manure and around 10% worm castings and 20% sand/ and or gravel. For acidic plants like blueberries I use 10% Black Soldier Fly castings and pine bark mulch.  Sometimes i add perlite or water saving beads to improve water retention.

[Lissa]

Mine have only recently shown themselves in my garden. Just starting to grow.

[Dianne Caswell]

Pat can you please tell me where to buy the Black Soldier Fly Castings? Or do you bred your own and if so how do I set up to do this?