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Pruning guide · Herbaceous plant
Jerusalem artichoke: when and how to prune
Helianthus tuberosus
Jerusalem artichoke is best pruned in March and November.
| Pruning months | March and November |
|---|---|
| Flowering | August–October |
| Native to Belgium | No, naturalised |
Jerusalem artichoke: when to prune it?
In November, after the first frost, and the last stems in March.
Jerusalem artichoke: how to prune it?
- After the first frost, cut the dead stems back to 20–30 cm above the ground: this shows you where to dig.
- Leave a few stems at the edge until March as shelter for insects, then clear them.
- Compost the stems, but never tubers or pieces of tuber: they will sprout again.
- If it grows too tall or blows over in summer, you can top the stems at 1.5–2 m in July.
How much to cut, and how often?
- There are 2 pruning periods a year: March and November. You don’t have to prune in every one.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Don’t cut more than you need to: what stays standing gives insects and birds food and shelter.
Caution: Never dump tubers or root remains in the countryside, in a stream or on a cold compost heap: they regrow everywhere. Waste with tubers belongs in the green waste collection.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Jerusalem artichoke · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.