Companion Planting for Artichokes

Artichokes, despite their less than appetizing name, were once reserved for ancient Roman nobility. This royal vegetable can be used in a large number of recipes--everything from stuffed artichokes to dips. This unique vegetable sprouts from an attractive plant that can reach 5 feet tall. Along with its versatility as food, artichokes add to the appearance of a garden and are often planted for aesthetic value. Purple flowers will appear if the plants are not cut back.

Growing Conditions

Artichokes are relatively easy to grow. Cool nights, warm days and full sun will make them thrive as they do in their native Mediterranean region. They require regular watering but can develop mildew if overwatered. They are very susceptible to freezing. California is a major producer of artichokes as its climate is ideal for their growth. It takes approximately four or five months to reach maturity so areas that remain warm for that amount of time should suffice. They also require a loose, rich soil.

Enemies and Threats

Some natural enemies of the artichoke are earwigs, slugs, aphids, plume moths and snails. It is recommended to use organic pest control if at all possible. Artichokes are also susceptible to curly dwarf, a disease that results in reduced growth and dark spots on the leaves. Botrytis rot is a fungus that can thrive on damaged artichoke leaves, for instance, those damaged by insects. This is also a threat after harvesting as damaged artichokes can still fall victim to it.

Good Companions

Companion planting works on the principle that various plants' characteristics can benefit their neighbors. Some plants can attract harmful insects, leaving your vegetables untouched; eggplant will trap potato bugs, for instance. Garlic and onions will repel aphids, a prevalent enemy of artichokes, while nasturtium will trap them. Other plants can attract beneficial insects such as alfalfa attracting assassin and big-eyed bugs., according to the Our Gardening Gang website.

Protective Plants

Sometimes the physical characteristics of plants can be of use--the sunflower can protect your artichokes from the potentially harmful afternoon sun. On the other hand, artichoke plants can reach a substantial size so they can be used as shade sources themselves. Bear in mind your garden's orientation in regards to sunlight when planting.

Good Neighbors and Good Fences

Artichokes are good neighbor plants. Other than their size, which can become considerable, they do not pose threats to other plants. They can also act as physical barriers or boundaries for garden areas. The flowers that can bloom on artichoke plants add nice color to a garden.

References

• Planet Natural: Growing Artichoke
• University of California Pest Management Guidelines: Artichoke
• Our Gardening Gang: Compnanion Planting