Grow Guide Conditions:
Artichokes prefer full sun, deep, rich, loose, well-drained soil (pH 6.5–7.0), and cool weather conditions over a long period. They grow best in cool coastal areas with mild winters where they can live for about 5 years. In areas with cold winters, the variety Imperial Star can be grown as an annual.
Grow Guide Seed:
Sow indoors 8 weeks before last frost in 2-4 inch pots, germinating at 70–80°F. Once sprouted, ensure that the seedlings are exposed to ~500 hours of temperatures below 50°F but above freezing to yield in the first year. Transplant outside after all danger of frost has passed, 36-48 inches apart, in rows 48-60 inches apart. If winters average above 15°F, seeds can be direct seeded in fall into lightly moistened soil.
Grow Guide Pests:
Aphids can be washed off by spraying the plants with a strong jet of water from the hose, or controlled with applications of insecticidal soap. Earwigs like to crawl beneath the leaf bracts of the flower buds. Control with Diatomaceous Earth and/or wash buds thoroughly before cooking.
Grow Guide Harvest:
Cut edible flower buds 1–11/2" below their base before they begin to open. Then remove the stalks at the base of the plant to encourage new growth. In USDA Zones 7-10 where artichokes are perennial the primary harvest is in the late spring. When growing as an annual in colder zones, the harvest is in the fall. Artichokes can be stored in the refrigerator for 2–3 weeks.