Jerusalem Artichoke Seeds

This is the species type grown from seeds of the Shiawassee variety. That selection more than others produces a greater amount of full seeds. The seedlings from this group are white colored with a long carrot like tuber. Some reach up to 12 inches long. From seed, this selection produces offspring similar to the parent. Some variation is naturally found in the length of the tubers but the color and the shape come through in the seedlings. That in itself is kind of rare and fortunate so you can essentially breed your own selections quickly. 

The seeds germinate easily but it is best to moisten them in a very light sand mix and then refrigerate for a week. Once you remove them from the refrigerator the seeds will sprout within a week or less. Sometimes you might want to repeat this procedure if a few are stubborn. This cooling and warming effect will unify the germination so more of them will all  sprout at once. Use a well drained soil mix and cover lightly so just enough soil holds the seeds in place or use a light sprinkling of sand. 

Our cut test reveals a 65 percent full seeds. That is quite good for sunchokes.