Considered a delicacy globe artichokes are easy to grow and as a perennial once planted will give a number of years worth of cropping.
Simply plant rooted suckers in the spring then remove the flower heads as they form in the first year then allow them to form more fully in the second year and pick them off just before the fleshy scales open in June. New growth will then appear in August. The thick tough old stems can then be cut back and composted. Most growth happens in winter and spring when dry soil is not a problem so maintenance is relatively low. That said they do appreciate thick annual mulching and some protection from harsher winter conditions.
Globe artichokes can be grown in places that do not support strong growth later in the year. Despite being perennials the plants will not last forever and annual replanting of the crop is good practice to ensure a continuous supply.
Frequently planted in both ornamental borders and vegetable plots Globe artichokes will grow to 1.5m x 1m (5ft x 3.25ft), make big clumps of thistle-like silvery leaves. They make good architectural plants as well as having those edible flowers. Ideally for cropping they are planted 60cm (2ft) apart with 75cm (2.5ft) between rows. On average one plant will produce 12 edible heads.
Planting and Growing Artichokes
As perennials, these plants will be on the ground for at least 3 years so soil preparation is critical.
Ensure you dig in lots of well-rotted manure before planting and aid drainage in clay soil by adding course grit. If you are planning on growing them in ornamental borders remember they are tall so plant at the back.
Cut back stems in autumn and protect the crown over winter with a thick mulch of bark chippings, straw or other mulch.
In the spring add a top-dressing of Vegetable Fertiliser.
Harvesting Artichokes
Use a sharp knife or secateurs to harvest a cucumber. Don’t allow the fruit to become too big, as the larger cucumbers grow the less flavour they possess and the more likely it will be that they turn bitter.
A yellowing cucumber has passed its harvest period. Indoor varieties may produce a yield through into October; outdoors the harvest will finish by the middle of September.
Ready to plant your own vegetables now you know how to grow artichokes? Take a look at our vegetable seed collection.