How To Grow and Harvest Artichoke
Growing Globe Artichokes: A Mediterranean Delight
Introduction
Globe artichokes, with their striking appearance and delicious flavour, are a rewarding addition to any garden. These versatile vegetables can be enjoyed steamed, grilled, or added to soups and stews. While they may seem intimidating to grow, with a little care and attention, you can cultivate these culinary treasures in your own backyard, year after year.
What Are Globe Artichokes?
Globe artichokes are perennial plants that thrive in Mediterranean climates. They are relatively low-maintenance and can produce for several years. The edible part of the plant is the immature flower head, which is harvested before it blooms. They are also great biomass producers. So even if you don’t want to eat them, they are great at feeding your garden. Chop and drop baby!
Planting Globe Artichokes
Climate: Globe artichokes prefer a mild climate with plenty of sunshine. They can tolerate some frost but are sensitive to extreme cold.
Soil Preparation: Prepare a well-drained, fertile soil. Incorporate plenty of organic matter like compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil structure and nutrient content.
Planting: Plant artichoke crowns in spring or autumn, spacing them about 1 meters apart. Plant the crowns slightly below the soil surface, with the growing points facing upwards.
Watering: Water your artichokes regularly during dry periods. However, avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plants to help retain moisture and suppress weeds. Or grow a living mulch like a herb or grown cover like soral.
General Care for Your Globe Artichokes
Fertilising: I don’t fertilise. Like at all. However, I know some people prefer to. Feed your artichokes with a balanced organic fertiliser in spring and summer.
Pruning: After harvesting, remove any dead or damaged foliage. In late winter, prune the plants back to encourage new growth.
Pest and Disease Control: Monitor your plants for pests like aphids and caterpillars. Use organic pest control methods, such as insecticidal soap or neem oil. I like to use a fermented chilli and garlic spray which I make at home.
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How to Harvest Globe Artichokes
The ideal time to harvest globe artichokes is when the flower heads are firm and compact, but before they start to open. Some of the lower fronds should be seen starting to lift. Use a sharp knife or secateurs to cut the heads, leaving a short stem attached above the main leaf. This will also encourage new growth and you may get another harvest, though they will be a bit smaller.
Propagating Globe Artichokes
You can propagate globe artichokes by dividing mature plants or by rooting offsets.
Dividing Plants:
Dig up a mature plant in spring or autumn.
Carefully divide the plant into sections, ensuring each section has healthy roots and shoots.
Plant the divisions in well-prepared soil.
Rooting Offsets:
Remove offsets from the base of the plant.
Dip the cut ends in rooting hormone (if you use it) and plant them in pots filled with potting mix for the best start. Otherwise you can plant directly where you intend to grow them.
Keep the plants moist and in a warm, shaded location.
Once the offsets have rooted, transplant them into the garden.
Permaculture and No-Dig Approaches to Globe Artichoke Cultivation
Companion Planting: Plant artichokes alongside herbs like sage, rosemary, or thyme to attract beneficial insects and deter pests, as well as provide living mulch.
Mulching: If you’re in a hot or drought region, add a thick layer of mulch to help conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and improve soil fertility.
No-Dig Gardening: To avoid disturbing the soil and its beneficial microorganisms, consider using a no-dig approach. Layer organic matter on top of the soil to create a rich planting bed.
By following these tips and embracing sustainable gardening practices, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of delicious globe artichokes year after year.
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