Growing artichokes from seed may seem intimidating, but with the right care and timing, you can enjoy fresh artichokes harvested right from your garden. I’ve grown artichokes from seed several times, and I’m excited to share everything I’ve learned about successfully cultivating these unique vegetables.
Getting Started with Artichoke Seeds
The first step is acquiring artichoke seeds. Look for varieties labeled as “annual” or “seed-raised” artichokes, as these are suitable for growing from seed in one season. Reputable seed sources include Johnny’s Selected Seeds, Seeds of Change, and Urban Farmer.
When selecting your seeds, choose early-maturing varieties adapted to your planting zone. Popular options include ‘Imperial Star’ and ‘Opera’. For best germination soak the seeds in water for 24-36 hours before planting.
Starting Seeds Indoors
Artichokes have a long growing season of 90 days or more, so it’s best to start them indoors 6-12 weeks before your last expected frost date. I like using deep containers or cell trays that are 6-8 inches deep to accommodate the taproot.
Keep the seeds between 70-80°F to germinate then lower to 60-70°F during the day and 50-60°F at night for growing on. Thin to one seedling per cell or pot. Aim for stocky healthy transplants about 6 inches tall.
Vernalizing the Seedlings
Here’s a key step for artichokes – the seedlings must be ‘vernalized’ by exposing them to cool temperatures between 32-50°F for 2-4 weeks. This mimics winter conditions and encourages the plants to flower in the first season when temperatures warm again.
I’ve had success vernalizing my seedlings in a cold frame or porch. Just take care to prevent frost damage. Start hardening off the seedlings about 2 weeks before vernalizing by taking them outside on warm days.
Transplanting Outdoors
After vernalizing, wait until after your last expected frost date to transplant artichoke seedlings into the garden. I space the plants 2-3 feet apart in rows spaced 3-6 feet apart. Prepare the garden bed with compost to enrich the soil.
Choose a sunny spot with well-draining soil. I amend dense or clay soils with organic matter to allow proper drainage. Water the new transplants regularly until they become established. Add a layer of mulch around the base of the plants to retain moisture.
Caring for Your Artichoke Plants
Artichokes thrive with consistent moisture and nutrition. I water regularly, especially during flowering and bud development. Every 2-3 weeks I fertilize with a balanced organic fertilizer or compost tea.
I also feed them with compost and organic matter like aged manure. Mulching heavily around the base helps retain moisture. Staking larger varieties prevents toppling. I monitor for pests like aphids, mites, and larvae and treat promptly to avoid damage.
Harvesting Your Homegrown Artichokes
You can begin harvesting artichoke buds once they reach about 3 inches in diameter. I like to cut the buds just above the base with 2 inches of stem attached before they start to open. Lower buds will be smaller.
After harvesting all buds, I cut each plant back by about a third to encourage new growth and a potential fall crop in warmer zones. Store harvested buds in the refrigerator to enjoy fresh.
Tips for Growing Artichokes from Seed
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Start seeds early indoors and use deep containers
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Vernalize seedlings for 2-4 weeks before transplanting
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Plant in full sun in enriched, well-draining soil
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Mulch and water consistently
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Fertilize every 2-3 weeks
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Stake tall varieties if needed
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Monitor for pests and treat promptly
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Harvest buds when 3 inches across
With the right care and timing, you can enjoy growing artichokes from seed. Pay close attention to planting times, vernalizing, and plant nutrition. In return, you’ll be rewarded with fresh, homegrown artichoke buds that are delicious steamed, roasted, or prepared in dips and salads. I hope these tips help you succeed in adding artichokes to your garden!
What an artichoke craves:
Artichoke plants thrive and set their best buds in full sun, but in warmer climates, the plant can tolerate partial shade. Artichokes grow best in a soil pH of 6.0 to 7.0. Artichokes require well-drained soil, as well as soil with a good amount of organic matter. If garden soil is of poor quality, plant the artichokes in raised beds.
How to Grow Artichokes in ANY Climate
FAQ
How long does it take an artichoke to grow from seed?
Growing Artichokes Artichokes were very high on our list of crops to grow but we had heard they were a bit difficult to grow. Turns out they weren’t any trouble at all. They do take up quite a bit of space, and their growing season is about three or four months from seed to harvest.
Why are artichokes hard to grow?
Two reasons artichoke plants fail are summer drought and winter soil that’s waterlogged.
How many artichokes will one plant produce?
- Typical Yield: Expect 6-20 artichokes per plant, though some plants may produce more.
- Factors Affecting Yield:
- Plant Health: A healthy plant with good soil, water, and sunlight will produce more artichokes.
- Pest and Disease Control: Protecting your plant from pests and diseases is crucial for a good harvest.
- Weed Control: Removing weeds helps ensure the plant has access to nutrients and water.
- Plant Size: Larger, well-established plants generally produce more artichokes.
- Climate: Artichokes thrive in mild climates and can be grown as perennials in warmer areas, while in cooler climates, they are often treated as annuals.
- Plant Health: A healthy plant with good soil, water, and sunlight will produce more artichokes.
- Harvesting:
- Harvest artichokes when the buds are tightly closed and the outer scales are a vibrant green.
- Cut the stem just below the bud when harvesting.
- Artichokes are perennials, so you can expect multiple harvests from the same plant over several years.
- Harvest artichokes when the buds are tightly closed and the outer scales are a vibrant green.
Should I soak artichoke seeds before planting?
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Optional, but potentially beneficial:Soaking artichoke seeds in water for 24 hours before planting can help soften the seed coat, which might make it easier for the seed to germinate.
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Soaking method:If you choose to soak, place the seeds in a container of lukewarm water for about 24 hours.
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After soaking:After soaking, plant the seeds in well-draining soil, keeping the soil consistently moist.
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Germination:Artichoke seeds typically germinate in 10 to 21 days under ideal conditions.
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Alternative method:Some gardeners prefer to sow the seeds directly into the garden or start them indoors in trays or containers, then transplant them once established.
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Bottom heat:Artichokes respond well to bottom heat, which can help speed up germination.
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Timing:For planting zones 7 and higher, start artichoke seeds in August for October and November transplanting.
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Hardening off:Seedlings should be hardened off before placing directly outside.
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Fertilizing:Fertilize seedlings bi-weekly to encourage strong growth.
How do you grow artichokes from seeds?
Step 1: Plant Artichokes seeds indoors. Head start your seeds indoors to maximize the growing season. Plant each seed in 10.2cm (4-inch) containers. Then, place them in a heated greenhouse or under fluorescent lights. If left under normal indoor temperatures, the seeds can germinate in a week.
Can artichokes grow indoors?
Artichokes grow well in containers, an excellent solution for those in cold zones. You can also start the seeds indoors in mid-winter and then transplant them in the spring. Before planting, add some compost to your soil. Plant artichoke seeds half an inch deep and thin to six feet apart. Space transplants three to four feet apart.
Can you plant artichoke seeds outside?
Depending on your growing zone, you can do it naturally or artificially. If outdoor temperatures align with your growing season, you can place artichoke seedlings outdoors for 10 to 12 days when temperatures are above freezing but still below 50ºF.