Learn how to grow artichokes from seeds or crowns, in pots or in the ground, and in various zones. This guide covers everything you need to know for a successful artichoke harvest.
Hello, fellow gardening enthusiasts! I’m Ashley Scott, and with over 10 years of gardening experience, I’m excited to share everything I’ve learned about Growing Artichokes. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned gardener, this guide will answer your questions and help you grow these delicious and beautiful plants in your own backyard. Let’s dig in!
Why Grow Artichokes?
Artichokes are a real treat. Not only do they taste amazing—think tender, earthy buds perfect for dipping in butter—but they also look stunning in your garden. With their big, silvery-green leaves and vibrant purple flowers, they’re like nature’s artwork. Plus, growing your own saves money and lets you enjoy them fresh, which is way better than anything from the store.
Choosing the Right Artichoke Variety
Before you start, pick a variety that fits your climate and space. Artichokes love warm weather and grow best in zones 7-11, but with a little effort, you can make it work in zones 5 and 6 too. Here are some favorites:
- Green Globe: The classic choice with big, tasty buds.
- Imperial Star: Perfect for cooler areas since it grows fast.
- Violetto: A gorgeous purple option that’s as pretty as it is yummy.
Want to learn more about varieties? Check out this guide from the University of California.
Seeds or Crowns: What’s the Best Way to Start?
You can grow artichokes from artichoke seeds or crowns (root pieces from mature plants). Here’s the scoop:
- Artichoke Seeds: Cheaper and give you more variety options, but they take longer to grow, and some might not sprout.
- Crowns: Cost more but get you to harvest faster—sometimes even in the first year!
If you’re new to this, I’d go with crowns. They’re easier and more reliable to start with.
Growing Artichokes from Seed
Starting with artichoke seeds? Here’s how I do it:
- When to Start: Begin indoors 8-12 weeks before your last frost. In my zone 7 garden, that’s around late winter.
- Soil: Use a light, well-draining seed mix.
- Planting: Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep and keep them moist.
- Warmth: They like it cozy—60-70°F (15-21°C) is perfect.
- Transplanting: When they’ve got 2-3 real leaves, move them to bigger pots or outside.
For extra help, see this step-by-step from Oregon State University.
How to Grow Artichokes from Crowns
If you’re using crowns, it’s even simpler:
- Timing: Plant in early spring after the frost is gone.
- Spot: Pick a sunny place with soil that drains well.
- Planting: Dig a hole, set the crown in so the top peeks out, and cover it up.
- Water: Give it a good drink and keep the soil damp.
Last spring, I planted a Green Globe crown, and by summer, I had my first buds—it was so exciting!
Growing Artichokes in Pots
No big yard? No problem! Growing artichokes in pots works great, especially if you’re in a cold zone or short on space:
- Pot Size: Grab a big one—at least 18 inches wide—with drainage holes.
- Soil: Fill it with rich potting mix.
- Planting: Pop in one crown or seedling per pot.
- Care: Water often and feed with fertilizer every month or so.
I’ve got a pot of Imperial Star on my patio right now, and it’s thriving! For more container tips, check my post on growing veggies in pots.
Growing Artichokes in Different Zones
Artichokes adapt to where you live. Here’s how I tweak it for different zones:
- Growing Artichokes in Zone 7: Plant in spring and cover with mulch in winter to keep them cozy.
- Growing Artichokes in Zone 6: Start seeds indoors in late winter, then move them out in spring. A cold frame helps in fall.
- Growing Artichokes in Zone 5: Grow them as annuals—start seeds early, plant in spring, and harvest before frost hits.
Curious about your zone? The USDA Plant Hardiness Map has you covered.
Growing Artichokes Indoors
Yes, you can try growing artichokes indoors! It’s trickier, but here’s my method:
- Light: They need 6-8 hours of sun daily. I use a grow light if my windows don’t cut it.
- Temp: Keep it 60-70°F (15-21°C).
- Pot: Use a big one with drainage.
- Care: Water and fertilize like outdoor plants.
I once grew a tiny Violetto indoors over winter—it didn’t make tons of buds, but it was a fun experiment!
Caring for Your Artichoke Plants
Once they’re growing, artichokes need some TLC:
- Watering: Keep the soil moist, especially when buds form. I water mine deeply once or twice a week.
- Fertilizing: Feed them every 4-6 weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
- Mulching: Add mulch to lock in moisture and stop weeds.
- Pests: Watch for aphids or slugs. I use soapy water to shoo them away—safe and simple!
For natural pest tricks, see my guide on controlling garden pests.
Harvesting Your Artichokes
The best part! Here’s how I harvest:
- When: Pick buds when they’re tight and firm, before they open up.
- How: Cut the stem 1-2 inches below the bud with a sharp knife.
- Store: Pop them in the fridge—they’ll stay fresh for about a week.
My first harvest was small, but the next year? Wow, my plants went wild with buds!
Final Thoughts
Growing Artichokes is such a joy. Whether you start with artichoke seeds, crowns, or try growing artichokes in pots, you’re in for a treat. They’re perfect for zones 5 to 11 with the right care, and even indoors if you’re up for it. Pick your variety, give them love, and soon you’ll be eating homegrown artichokes. Happy gardening!
