SCIENTIFIC NAME :Cynara spp.
CULTURE :
CULTURE:Artichokes and cardoon require very fertile, well-drained soils with a pH of 6.5-7.0. Sow artichokes indoors 8-12 weeks before last spring frost date. Cardoon is more vigorous and can be started later, 6-8 weeks prior to last frost date. Plant 2-3 seeds per cell in plug trays or individual containers 1/4″ deep. Germinate at 70-80°F (21-26°C). As soon as seedlings can be handled, transplant to 4″ pots or 1½” cell-type containers and grow at 60-70°F (15-21°C) day and 50-60°F (10-15°C) night. Transplant 6- to 12-week-old plants to the field 2-3′ apart in rows 4-6′ apart.
GLOBE ARTICHOKES:IMPORTANT COLD TREATMENT (VERNALIZATION):Time transplanting so plants receive a minimum of 10 days of 45-50°F (7.2-10°C) temperatures to induce budding. Protect from frost.
HARVEST:Clip mature buds midsummer to midfall, depending on location.
MILD AREAS:Where winter low is above 14°F (-10°C), sow seeds in fall, harvest in spring.SEED SPECS:SEEDS/LB.: Avg. 11,500
