Advances with Artichokes

As the buds begin to develop, keep an eye on them so that you can harvest them at the ideal time: at good size but before the bracts begin to open. If left too late, the buds will become tough and woody. Cut the buds with 1-2 inches of stem attached. Artichoke stems also have a similar flavour to the buds so don't throw these out! After harvest, cut back the flower stems to the ground and apply a well-balanced fertilizer to encourage another flush of shoots.

Overwintering

In the fall, cut back the plants to ground level and apply a one-foot heap of leaves, straw, hay or any loose mulch. Alternatively, invert boxes over the crowns to protect them from frost. As long as the drainage is good, the artichokes should survive the winter. If necessary, the roots can be dug up in the fall and stored in pots through the winter, much like dahlia tubers. Remove the mulch in March or April after frost has passed.

Pests

Few pests bother artichokes. Aphids can be a problem but the leaves are sturdy and will withstand a strong jet of water. Leaf miners can be active in the early spring but they rarely damage the plant severely. Hand squishing manages these pests effectively.

Varieties

As previously mentioned, Green Globe is one of the most popular artichoke. Violetto, a striking purple variety, is also gaining in recognition for its flavour and ornamental qualities. Recently, gardeners in extreme climates have had access to the variety Imperial Star. Developed by the California Cooperative Extension Service, Imperial Star produces uniformly from seed, withstands extreme temperatures, and still produces within the first year of seeding.

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