Spring planting doesn’t start when the air feels warm, It...Read More
Green Globe Artichoke is a unique and versatile plant with large, succulent flower buds with an edible heart. This perennial variety stands 3 to 4 feet tall, showcasing silvery-green leaves and sturdy stems that support the impressive 3 to 5-inch diameter buds. These buds feature overlapping green or purple-green scales and are a culinary delight, with the fleshy heart being commonly prized for its delectable flavor. Growing best in mild climates with well-drained soil, Green Globe Artichokes are often grown for their ornamental value and the delicious heart they yield, making them a great addition to any garden.
NAME: Artichoke (cardunculus var. scolymus)
VARIETY: Green Globe
DAYS TO MATURITY: 135 – 150 days
POLLINATION: Open Pollinated
TYPE: Perennial/Annual (climate pending)
STATIFICATION: Required: cold/wet, 4 weeks
HARDINESS ZONE: Zones 6 – 12
SUNLIGHT: Full Sun
SOIL: Well-draining, fertile soils with a pH 6.5 – 7.0
SPACING: 3 – 4 feet
PLANT HEIGHT: 36 – 48 inches
TEMP: 60 – 95ºF
Artichoke seeds must be stratified before planting otherwise germination will not occur. To do this, mix your seeds with sterile sand or sandwiched between a wet paper towel placed in a plastic bag and put it in the refrigerator for 14 days. After 14 days, you can immediately use the seed since it is ready for the opportunity to germinate
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Sow stratified seeds 1/4 inch deep in seed soil mix in cell trays or pots 8 to 10 weeks before your last local Spring frost
Germination will occur in 10 to 15 days if stratification was successful
If growing in cell trays, transplant into larger pots when the seedlings show their first two true leaves
Before transplanting outdoors, harden off seedlings for several days. Do this by taking them outside during the day and bringing them in at night (Outside temps should be above 50°F when you start this process)
Transplant into your prepared garden bed when the soil has warmed and all danger of frost has passed
Space artichoke plants about 3 to 4 feet apart to allow for their large size and spreading growth habit
Stratify the seeds as described above.
Sow Green Globe Artichoke seeds outdoors after the danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed up.
Choose a location with full sun and well-drained soil.
Prepare the planting area by loosening the soil to a depth of about 12 inches and removing any debris or weeds.
Sow the seeds ¼ inch deep and space them about 3 feet apart.
Water gently after planting and keep the soil consistently moist until germination.
Seeds typically germinate within 10-20 days when temperatures are consistently above 60°F (15°C).
Artichokes can tolerate some shade but prefer full sun and well-draining soil with good air circulation
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Artichokes require regular watering, especially during dry periods. Mulch around the plants to help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
Fertilize your artichoke plants with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or organic compost in early spring. Additionally, you can side-dress with a high-nitrogen fertilizer in late spring and again in mid-summer to encourage healthy growth.
Prune the outer leaves of the artichoke plant to encourage the development of the central bud. Remove any dead or diseased leaves throughout the growing season.
Prune the outer leaves of the artichoke plant to encourage the development of the central bud. Remove any dead or diseased leaves throughout the growing season.
Artichokes are typically ready for harvest in late spring to early summer. Harvest when the buds are firm, tight, and about 3-4 inches in diameter. Cut the stem about 1-2 inches below the base of the bud. Secondary buds may also develop and can be harvested later.