Artichokes - Alden Lane Nursery

Artichokes are a cool season perennial vegetable. The mature plants reach 3-5 feet in height and cover several square feet with large, deep-cut, grey-green leaves.

Artichokes are primarily grown for the soft fleshy flower bud, but this handsome plant is often used ornamentally in the garden. Given the proper conditions, each plant will produce several stalks with many flower heads and will remain productive for several years.

Preparing the Soil
Artichokes grow best in rich, well-drained soils supplied with plenty of organic matter. We recommend MASTER NURSERY GOLD RUSH. One cubic foot will enable you to prepare a 3 ft by 3 ft area, enough for one artichoke plant. Also important when planting is an initial treatment of MASTER NURSERY BONE MEAL. Use one cup bone meal beneath each plant for strong root development. Mix well into the soil beneath the roots. Water new transplants immediately and thoroughly.

Planting
Early winter to early spring is the perfect time for planting artichokes. Plant divisions in a sunny location or in one that receives a half day shade. Artichokes need plenty of room; space them about four feet apart. Place the plants in the soil, so the base of the new leafy shoots is just above the ground.

Watering & Feeding
After growth begins, water plants thoroughly once per week. Regular soakings are much more beneficial than frequent lighter sprinklings. As temperatures rise, plants may need additional water. Water when the leaves start to relax and wilt.

For a balanced supply of nutrients, feed the plants monthly with MASTER NURSERY TOMATO & VEGETABLE FOOD.

Harvesting
Cut artichokes while the buds are tight and about 2 to 4 inches in diameter. Cut each bud with 1 to 2 inches of the stalk. If left on the plant, the green bracts loosen, and their purple flowers show. Buds will open more rapidly in hot weather.

After harvesting, the last artichokes from a stem, it will wither, and the leaves will die back to the ground. Mid-summer is also the time to cut the stem and leaves to the ground. New shoots will grow from the base producing a new plant with next year’s crop. Make regular applications of Sluggo Plus to ward off earwig invaders.