How to Grow Artichokes

Artichokes are not only tastey, but decorative!

Artichokes are not only wonderful to eat, but they grow as big bold plants ideal for decorating the landscape. They even bloom in colorful brush-like flowers that offer a splendid shade of blue-purple. And they're easy to grow!

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. You can buy artichokes in big or small pots, but try to get them into the garden quickly. They don't do well in pots for very long.

2. Make sure you chose a spot in full sun that will leave them enough space to grow. They can easily reach 5' x 5' in size.

3. Artichokes are very forgiving about soil and will do well in rich or poor soil.

4. Try to disturb roots minimally when taking plants out of the pot and planting. Dig a hole a little larger than the root ball and water the hole. Plant the artichoke, fill in any remaining soil and water it in well. Make sure the plant stays well watered when young.

5. You can keep faded leaves pulled from the bottom of the plant. In the spring you need to watch out for aphids (usually heralded by scurrying ants on the plant). Hose off aphids or use a safe insecticidal soap (especially if you intend to eat the artichokes). Otherwise, these plants are very low maintenance.

6. 

   Crop the buds in the late winter or early spring cutting them as you need them. I like to leave several buds to open into the showy blue-purple thistle-like flowers. Later these can be dried and used for dried flower arrangements. But use a fixative spray before bringing them in as the seeds will take off on their silken parachutes and fly all over your house otherwise!

7. Most artichokes can take light frosts and hot summer sun. They are somewhat drought-resistant and will do fine with regular water, too. They can be used around the vegetable garden toward the back or sides where their large size will soften the dull look of a utilitarian garden. Or you can use them in the regular garden -- again toward the back -- where the large leaves and bright flowers will be a conversation piece.