Are you thinking of growing artichokes in your garden, but don’t know where to start? Are you concerned about the soil type, light requirements, and water needs for artichokes? Well, look no further, as we have the ultimate post on how to grow artichokes. As a gardener, you want to ensure that you have all the information you need to have a bountiful harvest. In this blog post, we will cover everything you need to know about how to grow artichokes. From the best soil type to the right time to harvest.
When planning to grow artichokes, the first factor to consider is your climate zone. Artichokes thrive in USDA hardiness zones 7 through 11, where winter temperatures don’t dip below 0 degrees Fahrenheit. With proper protection and mulching, gardeners in zones 5 and 6 can also successfully grow artichokes. In colder regions, artichokes can be grown as annuals. But they generally do best in areas with a long, frost-free growing season.
Artichoke How to Plant
Before planting artichokes, prepare the soil by enriching it with compost or well-rotted manure, ensuring it is rich in organic matter. Light, well-drained soil is ideal. Choose a spot that gets full sun—artichokes need at least 6 hours of sunlight each day.
Planting artichokes involves either sowing seeds indoors in late winter, or dividing existing plants in early spring. When sowing seeds indoors, plant them 1/4 inch deep in seed starting mix. Then transplant the seedlings outdoors once the risk of frost has passed. If dividing existing plants, carefully split the root ball with a sharp spade, ensuring each division has at least one budding shoot.
Space out your artichoke plants about 3 to 5 feet apart, as they require ample room to spread out and grow. Water them well after planting and continue to provide consistent moisture throughout the growing season. With proper care and the right conditions, you can look forward to a bountiful harvest of artichokes.
Jerusalem Artichoke How to Plant
Planting Jerusalem artichokes, also known as “sunchokes,” is somewhat different from globe artichokes. Begin by sourcing your Jerusalem artichoke tubers from a reputable nursery or garden center. These tubers should be planted in early spring, as soon as the ground becomes workable.
Choose a location that gets full sun to partial shade and has well-draining soil. Unlike globe artichokes, Jerusalem artichokes can tolerate a variety of soil types, including those that are less fertile.
Plant the tubers 3-5 inches deep and about 12-18 inches apart. Each tuber should be planted with the small buds, or “eyes,” facing upwards. Water thoroughly after planting, and maintain consistently moist (but not waterlogged) soil throughout the growing season.
Jerusalem artichokes are vigorous growers and can reach heights of up to 10 feet. Therefore they can also serve as an effective windbreak or screen in the garden. Remember that these plants can spread aggressively, so consider planting them in a contained area or large pot to keep them in check.
With the right care, you’ll enjoy a rewarding harvest of Jerusalem artichokes in the late fall or early winter, once the foliage has died back. Their nutty, sweet tubers can be an excellent addition to your culinary repertoire.
Fertilizing your Globe and Jerusalem Artichokes
The nutritional needs of globe artichokes and Jerusalem artichokes vary, and so their fertilizing requirements differ slightly.
For globe artichokes, a balanced fertilizer—such as a 10-10-10 formulation, applied in early spring can support robust growth. Spread the fertilizer evenly around the base of the plant. Making sure to avoid direct contact with the leaves or stem, and water thoroughly. Repeat this application in midsummer to further boost plant health and productivity.
Jerusalem artichokes, on the other hand, are less demanding. They can thrive in less fertile soils, and too much nitrogen can lead to excessive leaf growth at the expense of tuber development. As such, a low-nitrogen, high-potassium fertilizer, applied at planting time, is often sufficient. If growth appears sluggish during the season, a single additional application of a balanced fertilizer can be helpful.
In both cases, remember that organic matter plays a vital role in soil fertility. Regular additions of compost or well-rotted manure can help maintain soil health, improve its structure, and provide a slow-release source of nutrients to your artichokes. Always ensure that your soil pH is between 6.5 and 8.0, which is the ideal range for these plants.
How to Harvest Artichokes
For globe artichokes, harvesting typically occurs in late summer or early fall. Monitor your plants closely and look for the artichoke globes to reach about 3-4 inches in diameter. The buds should still be tightly closed, and the leaves a vibrant green. To harvest, simply cut the stem about 1-2 inches below the base of the globe. Remember, smaller buds lower on the plant can also be harvested and enjoyed, although they may be less meaty than the larger, primary buds.
Jerusalem artichokes, on the other hand, are harvested for their tubers. The best time to harvest is after the first frost in the late fall or early winter, once the foliage has yellowed and died back. This chilling period can actually enhance the flavor of the tubers. To harvest, use a garden fork to carefully loosen the soil around the plants and lift out the tubers. Be sure to dig deep and wide, as the tubers can spread quite a bit and can be found as deep as 12 inches below the surface.
In both cases, only harvest what you plan to eat immediately, as freshly harvested artichokes have the best flavor and texture. Globe artichokes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, while Jerusalem artichokes can be stored in a cool, dark place for several months. Just remember, once harvested, Jerusalem artichokes can become soft, so it’s best to leave them in the ground until you’re ready to use them.
How Many Artichokes per Plant
On average, a healthy globe artichoke plant can produce between 12 and 15 buds per season under ideal conditions. These buds develop on the central stalk and on lateral shoots. The primary bud is generally the largest, with subsequent buds decreasing in size as they progress down the stem.
Jerusalem artichokes, in contrast, produce tubers underground. A single plant can yield up to 2 to 5 pounds of tubers, depending on the growing conditions and care provided. It’s important to note that each of these tubers can potentially become a new plant if left in the ground, contributing to their reputation as vigorous growers.
Different Varieties of Artichokes and their Unique Features
Artichokes come in a variety of types, each with its own unique features and culinary uses.
- Globe Artichoke (Cynara scolymus): This is perhaps the most common variety known to most people. The globe variety produces large, round buds with thick, meaty leaves. This type of artichoke is often steamed whole and the leaves are eaten one by one until the heart is revealed.
- Jerusalem Artichoke (Helianthus tuberosus): Despite its name, the Jerusalem artichoke is not actually an artichoke but a species of sunflower. This plant is grown for its tubers, which have a crisp texture and a sweet, nutty flavor. They can be harvested in late fall or early winter and can be eaten raw or cooked.
- Violetta Artichoke (Cynara scolymus ‘Violetta’): This Italian variety is smaller than the globe artichoke and has a more elongated shape. The buds have a beautiful purple hue and a tender, delicate flavor. Violetta artichokes are excellent for grilling or roasting.
- Green Globe Artichoke (Cynara scolymus ‘Green Globe’): A popular variety in the United States, the Green Globe produces large, flavorful buds. This variety is particularly resistant to cold temperatures and is therefore a good choice for cooler climates.
- Tuscan Artichoke (Cynara scolymus ‘Tuscan’): Another Italian heirloom variety, the Tuscan artichoke is known for its large, heavy buds and excellent flavor. This variety is often used in Italian cooking, particularly in traditional Tuscan dishes.
When deciding which type of artichoke to grow, consider the specific growing conditions of your garden, as well as your culinary preferences. Each variety has its own unique set of requirements and benefits, offering a diverse range of options for any garden or kitchen.
Happy Gardening!
Growing artichokes can be a rewarding experience for any gardener, I hope you’ve found useful information on how to grow artichokes in your garden. It requires proper soil preparation, full sun, regular watering, and proper nutrition. Knowing the right time to harvest can mean the difference between a great harvest and a poor one. By following the tips and tricks in this guide, you will be able to grow healthy and delicious artichokes in your garden.
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