#22. Growing Artichokes
Artichokes have a delicate flavor that comes from ball-like flower heads. They are picked for consumption before they can bloom. The plant grows to form large clumps of arched leaves, making them good structural plants. In the case of artichokes, growing them from seed is a rather long winded process. It is preferable to buy them as seedlings in spring time.
Artichoke plants can be grown in groups, set in rows. Each plant produces approximately 12 edible heads, so calculate how many you will need before buying the seedling plants.
The growing process
Soil preparation: a sunny, open area with deeply tilled, well drained, rich soil. Because of their appearance, the plants make a good backdrop for a border. A plentiful quantity of aged manure and compost should be added to the soil to improve its draining ability. Prior to planting, general fertilizer should be added to the soil. Soil pH value should be 6.5 to 7.5. Frequent mulching and watering is required for the soil during the growing season and in summer.
Climate: artichokes grow well in a mild climate that is frost-free and has a cool, damp summer. For people who live in cool climate areas, the plants need to be cut back to about 12 inches in the autumn. Heavy mulching will help to protect the root structures from winter cold.
Planting: artichoke plants require a lot of space – the recommended space is minimum 3 feet between each plant. Dig deep holes, bigger than the plants, and fill the holes well to secure the plants firmly in place. The shoots or suckers that you buy need to come from a reputable seller and should be disease-resistant. If you plan to use seeds, remember the germination rate of this vegetable is low. You will require several packets of seeds to get at least six successful plants.
Maintenance: soil needs to be kept moist constantly, all through spring and summer. The fertilizing process needs to be repeated halfway through the growing season. Half a cup of low nitrogen fertilizer should be added to the hole at the time of planting and then repeated. During winter the plant crowns can be covered by thick mulch made from straw or bark clippings. An addition of aged manure in early spring will help improve plant growth.
Harvesting
In the first year all flower heads that form need to be removed. The heads should be allowed to develop in the second year. Harvest terminal (topmost) buds when large and swollen. The scales should still be closed.