How to Grow Artichokes From Crowns Step By Step

This guide will help us learn how to grow artichokes from crowns, and what preferred growing conditions we should provide them.

Artichoke is a flowering plant belonging to the Asteraceae family and is native to the Mediterranean. It has been cultivated since ancient times and has been around for thousands of years. The artichoke plant grows as a perennial in most temperate climates and can be grown in any well-drained soil. Artichoke is the thistle of the vegetable world and is widely used in Mediterranean cuisine.

Mediterranean cuisine

Artichokes are also very beneficial for our health and the environment. They can help to reduce the risk of cancer, improve digestion and protect against liver disease, diabetes, and heart diseases. Artichoke is also a good source of fiber, folate, vitamin C, and potassium.

How to Grow Artichokes From Crowns

To grow artichokes from crowns, we need to provide enough light, air circulation, and moisture. To ensure a sufficient amount of light and air circulation, we can use south-facing windows or window frames. To ensure sufficient moisture, we suggest providing a drip irrigation system.

The ideal temperature for growing artichokes from crowns is between 15°C and 25°C. Artichokes can be grown all year round, but it’s best to start them in the spring, from April.

How To Grow Artichokes

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Step-by-step guide

Step 1: Select a good location

Before you start your plant, make sure that you have a sunny and well-ventilated spot for it. The ideal spot would be south-facing with at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Also, make sure that there is plenty of space between plants to allow proper air circulation.

Step 2: Prepare the soil

The first thing you need to do before planting artichokes is to prepare the soil. You need to remove all weeds, grass, and stones from the area. Then you need to add some organic compost to the soil to improve its quality and nutrients.

Step 3: Planting the artichoke crowns

After preparing the soil, you can plant your artichoke crowns. Make sure that the crowns are planted about 2 inches deep and 2 inches apart from each other, in rows. You can also use small rocks to keep the soil level.

Step 4: Watering and fertilizing

The artichoke needs a lot of water. Try to water your plant at least once a day for the first month. Also, try to fertilize your plants with a balanced fertilizer every four weeks.

Step 5: Fruits are ready to harvest

In about three to four months, you will be able to see the fruits of your artichokes. They should be firm and healthy. You can pick them and enjoy their delicious taste.

Step 6: Harvesting more artichokes

You can continue to harvest your artichokes every so often. This way you can enjoy fresh vegetables all year long!

Care and Maintenance For The Artichokes Growing From Crowns

Location

Crowns are best grown in full sun or indirect sunlight, but if you live in a warm area they can tolerate partial shade. They do not like to be too wet, so it is best to plant them on a bed of rich soil that has been kept slightly moist.

Moisture

Artichokes need lots of water. You will have to water them around twice per week for the first couple of months, and more often if you live in a dry climate. Make sure you water deeply enough to get down into the roots. Not watering in the heat can burn the leaves, so you may have to water more often during the summer.

Fertilizer

You will need to add fertilizer once a month, but only if your soil is poor. The most common fertilizer is 20-20-20.

Light

Artichokes don’t need a lot of light, but they are also sensitive to cold. If your plants are getting too much sun, protect them with a shade cloth.

Pruning

You will need to cut off the bottom of the plant and prune the stem so that it grows straight up. If you have a small garden then you can grow the artichokes in a large pot or planter.

Harvesting

The artichokes may be harvested as soon as the first flower opens. The leaves begin to yellow and fall off, signaling that the artichoke is ready to eat. When picking, grasp the artichoke by its stem and pull gently to remove it from the ground.

Using the Artichokes

The artichokes are then hung in a shady spot out of direct sunlight, and they will keep for up to 3 weeks. To cook, cut off the top third of the artichoke, and trim away any tough outer leaves. Cut off the stem, then cut the artichoke in half.

Using a spoon or a small sharp knife, scrape out the fuzzy choke with the base intact. Put the artichokes into a saucepan and cover them with cold water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 20 minutes or until tender.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can You Grow an Artichoke Plant From an Artichoke?

Yes, you can start growing artichokes from crowns and successfully harvest a good crop.

Can You Grow Artichokes From Cuttings?

Yes, artichokes can be propagated from root cuttings or stem cuttings. Artichokes require the same growing conditions as other perennial vegetables such as strawberries and tomatoes. 

What is an Artichoke Crown?

An artichoke crown is a small piece of artichoke plant that is ready for planting in its own pot. You can grow artichokes in pots made of clay, plastic, glass, terracotta or ceramic.

How Do You Germinate Artichoke Seeds?

It takes between 10 and 20 days for artichoke seeds to germinate. For best results, start seeds indoors 6 weeks before your last frost date and transplant them after the soil has warmed up. Alternatively, you can plant them directly in the garden after the last frost date. The artichoke requires a warm, well-drained, fertile and sunny location with temperatures above 60°F.