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Advances with Artichokes

© Arzeena Hamir

The Romans were one of the first cultures to become enamored with artichokes, Cynara scolymus. A member of the Sunflower family, artichokes have often been labeled as "difficult" and gardeners have tended to shy away from growing these beauties. However, new developments in breeding and a few cultural techniques will ensure production even in more inhospitable climates.

Artichokes are native to Southern Europe where they have flourished for centuries in the full sun & rich soil of the continent. Present-day artichokes developed from two strains: green & globe. Green artichokes are prolific, hardy and well adapted to growing in cool conditions but their taste is not as intense as the globe artichokes, which usually have a purple tinge to their bracts. One of the most popular varieties today, Green Globe, is the product of a 19th century cross of the two.

Culture

Two methods of planting artichokes are available to the home gardener. Few artichokes breed true to seed so divisions are usually taken to multiply the plants, similar to starting rhubarb. These divisions or offshoots are planted about 6 inches deep so that the tops are flush with the soil surface.

Alternatively, a few varieties can be started from seed in the early spring. They do need to be started early, 8-10 weeks before last frost. The seeds take a while to germinate so use a good quality potting mix to prevent the seeds from rotting. After the first true leaves have developed, the seedling can be potted up. Feed with liquid fertilizer at 1/4 strength every 2 weeks.

Artichokes are very sensitive to frost so the plants do need to be hardened-off before transplanting. Like lettuce, they prefer mild temperatures and can't take extremes. A hard frost will kill them and, alternatively, soil temperatures above 85 F cause the plants to go into summer dormancy.

Spacing is critical for these plants. A full-grown plant has a radius of 6 ft so to ensure that the plants aren't too crowded, they should be spaced at least 4 feet apart. If plants are crowded, poor air circulation can contribute to the development of mildews.

Because these are perennial plants, they should be placed in a permanent bed in the garden where they won't be disturbed. Before planting, make sure the soil is well amended with compost or fertilizer and the pH is adjusted to between pH 6-8.

Plants will begin to produce chokes 90-100 days after transplanting. Initially, the plants will send up just 1 or 2 flower stalks, However, a well-established plant will provide up to 12 chokes in subsequent years and will keep producing for 4-7 years. A small family only requires 3 or 4 plants.