Artichoke (Globe) Growing Guide

Soil

Rich, well drained, with plenty of compost added.

Position

Full sun or partial afternoon shade.

Frost tolerant

Short-lived perennial where winters are mild, but often grown as an annual in climates with warm days and cool nights.

Feeding

Keep well fed with liquid feed through midsummer. Feed less when plants begin to produce buds.

Companions

Peas and Hairy Vetch.

Spacing

Single Plants: 2′ 11″ (90cm) each way (minimum)
Rows: 2′ 11″ (90cm) with 2′ 11″ (90cm) row gap (minimum)

Sow and Plant

Start seeds indoors 8 weeks before last spring frost, or buy rooted divisions in spring. Set out at about the time of the last frost.

Notes

Need plenty of water, so mulch generously to keep the soil cool and moist.

Harvesting

Use a sharp knife to cut the heads (flower buds) with 2 inches of stem attached while they are still closed or justly slightly opening.

Troubleshooting

Artichokes grow best in cool, maritime climates, but a few plants are worth trying in any garden.

Scroll to top