Basics

Ease of Growing
Moderate
Grown as
Perennial
Growing Habit
-
Hardiness
Hardy

They are quite frost tender. In cool weather they are grown as annuals and in warm weather they are grown as perennials.

Crops
Spring Transplant
Growing Season
Long
Cultivar Type
-
Growing Conditions
Cool, Warm

They grow best in the mild, damp, maritime climate of coastal California. The plants won't survive in cold winters, so in Northern areas they must either be grown as annuals or protected over the winter. They need full sun.

Outdoor Growing Temp
45°F - 85°F
Min Outdoor Soil Temp
55°F

Don’t plant out until all frost danger is past and the soil has warmed up to at least 55˚ F.

Start Indoors
Yes
Start Outdoors
No
Light
Sun: min. 6 hours daily (Cool, Warm)

Artichokes are native to the Mediterranean and need full sun for best growth.

Water
Moderate

Though relatively drought tolerant, Artichokes yield better if the soil is kept evenly moist. Water is especially crucial when the buds are developing.

Feeder
Light

Artichokes are most productive when grown without any check in their growth, which means they must get all the nutrients they need. They are usually fed annually with a mulch of compost or aged manure. You can also use an occasional foliar feed of compost tea or liquid kelp.

Suitability
Needs lots of space
Small Gardens?
No
Containers?
Yes, but will need a large one, like a half wine barrel

Artichokes can be grown in containers, but it's tricky and requires a lot of work. It's important to choose a pot with the right dimensions. Your container needs to be at least 20" deep and 36 to 40" in diameter. Choose a pot that has several drain holes on the bottom, as Artichokes are very susceptible to being waterlogged. Line the bottom with large stones/gravel or netting to prevent soil erosion and fill with a light and loamy, moisture-retaining soil. Incorporate fertilizer such as compost or manure a few days before you plant your Artichokes. Artichokes require lots of water and nutrients. Water well 3 to 4 times a day, and fertilize regularly with compost tea every 1 or 2 weeks. It can also be helpful to use a high-nitrogen fertilizer for the first 3 to 4 weeks. Make sure your artichokes receive plenty of sunshine.

Attracts beneficial insects?
No
Color
Purplish Green
Fruit Size
2.0 - 4.0"
Plant Height
48.0 - 72.0"
Plant Diameter
48.0 - 72.0"
Hardiness Zone
7-14
Disease Resistance
-
Taste Profile

Meaty heart, full nutty flavor. Popular with chefs.

Rotation Group
Perennial