Globe Artichoke

What you'll need:

Globe artichoke seeds or young plants (seedlings)

Large pots (at least 24 inches wide and deep) or a garden bed

Rich, well-draining soil (mix in compost if the soil feels too sandy or clay-heavy)

• A sunny spot with partial shade during the hottest part of the day

When to start:

Globe artichokes are cool-season plants that thrive in mild climates. If you're growing from seeds, start them indoors about 8-10 weeks before the last frost date in spring. If you live in a warmer climate, you can plant them directly outside in early spring when temperatures are consistently above 50°F (10°C).

Choosing the right location:

Globe artichokes love sunlight but don't do well in extreme heat. They need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily, but afternoon shade is helpful in hotter regions. If planting in the ground, space them about 3-4 feet apart because they grow into large, bushy plants.

Tip: If you're in a colder area, consider growing artichokes as annuals or protecting them in winter with mulch or row covers.

If you have seeds:

1. Fill small pots with moist soil and plant 2-3 seeds per pot about ¼ inch deep.
2. Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy.
3. Place the pots in a warm, sunny spot indoors until the seedlings sprout, which usually takes 7-14 days.
4. Once the seedlings have grown 2-3 true leaves (not just the first pair), thin them out so only the strongest plant remains in each pot.
5. Harden off the seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions over a week before transplanting.

If you have seedlings:

1. Dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball of the seedling.
2. Gently place the seedling in the hole and backfill with soil, ensuring the base of the plant is level with the soil surface.
3. Water thoroughly after planting.

Planting tips:

• Use rich, fertile soil with plenty of organic matter like compost.
• Space plants 3-4 feet apart in all directions to give them room to grow.
• Add a layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.

Watering:

• Globe artichokes need consistent moisture, especially during dry spells.
• Water deeply once or twice a week rather than a little every day to encourage deep root growth.
• Aim for about 1-2 inches of water per week, either from rain or watering.

Feeding time:

• Feed your artichokes every 4-6 weeks with a balanced fertilizer (look for something labeled "all-purpose" or "vegetable fertilizer").
• Alternatively, side-dress with compost or aged manure to provide slow-release nutrients.

Sunlight and temperature:

• These plants prefer cooler weather but can tolerate mild frost. Ideal growing temperatures are between 60-75°F (15-24°C).
• If temperatures rise above 85°F (29°C), provide some afternoon shade to prevent stress.

Pruning and support:

• After harvesting, cut back the stalks to encourage new growth.
• In colder climates, cut the plant down to about 6 inches above the ground in late fall and cover with mulch to protect it through winter.

Minor problem solving:

• Yellowing leaves? Check your watering schedule—artichokes dislike both drought and waterlogged soil.
• Slugs or snails? Remove them by hand or use natural deterrents like crushed eggshells around the base of the plant.

When to pick your artichokes:

• You’ll typically see buds forming in late spring to early summer, depending on your climate.
• Harvest the artichokes when the buds are firm, tight, and about 3-4 inches in diameter.
• Don’t wait too long—the buds will open into purple flowers if left on the plant, and then they’re no longer edible.

How to pick:

• Use sharp scissors or pruning shears to cut the stem about 1-2 inches below the bud.
• Handle the artichokes gently to avoid bruising.

After harvesting:

• Fresh artichokes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
• If you’ve harvested more than you can use, consider steaming and freezing them for later use.
• Remember, globe artichokes often produce a second crop later in the season, so keep caring for the plant even after the first harvest!

Q: Can I grow globe artichokes in containers?

A: Yes, but make sure the container is large enough—at least 24 inches wide and deep—to accommodate their extensive root system. Also, ensure the pot has good drainage holes.

Q: Why aren’t my artichoke plants producing buds?

A: It could be due to insufficient sunlight, poor soil fertility, or improper watering. Artichokes need full sun and nutrient-rich soil to thrive. Double-check your care routine!

Q: Do globe artichokes come back every year?

A: In warmer climates (zones 7 and above), they can act as perennials if protected during winter. In colder areas, they may need to be replanted annually unless you take extra steps to insulate them.

Q: How do I know if an artichoke is ready to harvest?

A: Look for firm, tightly closed buds. Once the scales start to open, the artichoke becomes tough and inedible.

Q: Can I eat the whole artichoke?

A: Not exactly! The edible parts are the tender base (heart) and the fleshy lower portions of the bracts (the leaf-like parts). The choke (fuzzy center) should be removed before eating.