How to grow Globe Artichoke

Find out how to grow Artichokes in your vegetable garden. Learn what they need, when to plant them and how long until you can enjoy the tasty buds.

Plant Artichokes in rich, well draining soil with plenty of added compost 

 Artichokes prefer full sun, however, will tolerate some afternoon shade.  

Yes, Artichokes will survive mild frosts.

Plant Artichoke plants a minimum of 1m apart.

Sow Artichoke seeds into punnets filled with moist, seed-raising compost. Globe Artichoke seeds germinate well at temperatures of around 20°C (68°F). 

Germination takes about 15 to 20 days, within two months most seedlings will be large enough to be transplanted into the garden.

Plant out in spring once the danger of frost has passed. 

Transplant seedlings in the early morning or evening and/or on an overcast day. Avoid planting at peak sun times or on windy days, this will allow your plants to settle in comfortably and protect them from windburn and sunburn. 

Before planting your Artichokes, prepare the soil by working in compost. Use a regular application of an organic fertiliser throughout the season. Mulch the soil well to retain moisture. 

Use a sharp knife to cut the Artichoke heads with roughly 2 inches of stem attached. Harvest while heads are closed or justly slightly opening.

Pests that can affect Artichoke plants include: Aphids, Slug, Snail, Armyworm, Artichoke Plume Moth, Flea Beetle, Loopers, Mites.

Diseases that can affect Artichoke plants include: Blight, Powdery Mildew, Artichoke Curly Dwarf Virus, Bacterial Crown Rot, Botrytis Rot (Gray Mold).

Artichokes are short-lived perennials, so they will continue to grow year after year, for up to three or four years. They are commonly grown as annuals, particularly in cooler climates.