After mild winters, new plants will sprout in the spring from the old parent plant. The lure of home grown artichokes drives many to try growing their own. It chews holes in young leaves, stems and buds in the spring. Plants need 10-12 days of temperatures below 50 degrees to stimulate budding. Used to set off any color in a perennial border, as a striking specimen plant or the flagship of a vegetable garden, the artichoke has much to recommend it to the gardener. The plants are grown for their unopened flower buds, which are boiled in salt water and eaten hot or cold, or pickled. After that, it's best to dig and divide it as it produces off-shoot plants that may crowd the original plant. You can also grow them in containers if you prefer, but you’ll need a large pot. They are short-lived perennials in warmer climates but are normally grown as annuals in cooler regions. As you know, this is not really the best climate for growing and over-wintering the plants as they are not winter-hardy in our zone. Kym Pokorny, 541-737-3380, [email protected], Jim Myers, 541-737-3083, [email protected]. Artichokes are usually grown for the edible flower buds, which are harvested before the flowers open. Prevent by avoiding over-crowding and by assuring that bed is well-drained. Mulching Artichokes grown at home are tastier with much more tender flesh that no store-bought produce can match. "Space them 3 to 5 feet apart, and when planning your garden, think about the shade they will cast. "In the fall, cut back your artichoke plant and mulch it with a covering of leaves or straw. Figure on 4-6 plants for a family. Treat with Neem oil or insecticidal soap spray. Water regularly and carefully. The biggest buds are at the terminus of branches. Location. and boost immunity; B-complex vitamins enhance metabolic function. Sun Requirements. Water and mulch regularly.". Buds will develop at the tip of the stalk and should be removed with a sharp knife. If left to bloom the head will flower like a giant thistle but this will reduce future crops. Artichokes and Your Health. your own Pins on Pinterest 6-8 weeks before putting out crowns or transplants, dig your bed to about 2 feet, mixing in compost, lime and phosphate. Low in calories and fat and high in fiber and many nutrients, artichokes are a nutritional gold-mine. Slugs & Snails I planted them in rows on hills in a staggered pattern every six feet. If left to flower, the plant will produce a large purple thistle that can be dried and used in arrangements. Conserve moisture and keep weeds down with composted straw or leaf mulch during the growing season. Identify your growing zone. They need full sun to do well. Cut with a sharp knife, leaving an inch or so of stem attached. Aphids But the reason most people grow them are the leathery leaves made to dip into butter – or is it mayo? Artichoke starts need deep, well-amended soil in full sun. scolymus) are first mentioned around 77 AD, so people have been eating them for a long, long time. Search out smaller buds among the foliage. About the OSU Extension Service: The Oregon State University Extension Service shares research-based knowledge with people and communities in Oregon’s 36 counties. Space them 3 to 5 feet apart. This may have to be provided by some irrigation. Earwig damage appears as holes bored through the base of flower buds. A soaker hose circling the plant and covered with mulch works well, but keep it clear of the plant crown to avoid rot. Winter. Water at base only and avoid wetting leaves. With their 2-3 foot long arched silvery leaves, they are a beautiful and unusual-looking addition to the garden. Since they can grow 3 feet or more in height, think about … Water I have had some experience growing globe artichokes. Artichokes are deep rooted and when grown in the mild coastal climate, require up to 15 inches of water during the production season. For the more willing, it’s best to start them indoors 8 weeks before the last frost. Late Spring. In short, if you live in a climate that has consistent winter temperatures between 10 °F (−12 °C) and 20 °F (−7 °C), plan to plant artichokes annually. Read on to learn more about these plants.