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Amongst the root artichokes,
the Jerusalem variety is an unusual sight on the
allotment or vegetable plot, but the other one,
the Chinese artichoke, is distinctly rare. From
the cultivation standpoint this is rather odd
– the Chinese artichoke is easier to grow,
requiring neither staking nor earthing-up. The
reason for the unpopularity of this vegetable
is the nature of the tubers – small, convoluted
and indented, so that it is the cook rather than
the gardener of the family who find the vegetable
frustrating.
If you can locate a supplier of tubers, plant
in the same way as Jerusalem artichokes, 6in (15cm)
deep in February or March. Use closer spacings
– 1ft (30cm) intervals in drills 1 ½
ft (45cm) apart. Growth is not vigorous, so do
all you can to promote maximum tuber development.
Plant in humus-rich soil and in summer water and
feed regularly. Lift, as required, between November
and the early spring. Cover the plant with straw,
leaves or compost in winter. At the end of the
season make sure that all the tubers have been
removed.
The flavour of Chinese artichokes is both delicate
and delicious – treat as Jerusalem artichokes
for cooking.
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