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Globe Artichoke

Cynara scolymus

INTRODUCTION

Globe Artichokes, unlike many vegetables, the flower bud is eaten rather than the leaves or roots.

Originating in the Mediterranean, they have existed since Roman and Greek times. Still considered a delicacy, this perennial plant is not difficult to grow and will last for 4-5 years.

Globe Artichokes make sizable plants, both in height and spread. If you don't have room for this architectural and highly decorative plant on the allotment, try and make space for it in your herbaceous border.

Soil Preparation

Globe Artichokes require well-drained, fertile soil preferably in a sheltered position away from prevailing winds. They will be at their happiest in full sun.

Prepare the ground by incorporating well-rotted manure or garden compost into the soil.

Globe Artichokes dislike acidic soils. Correct soil pH if necessary. 

Sowing & Planting

It is possible to buy Globe Artichoke plants of a range of varieties that will save you time on establishing your own but sowing seed and raising plants is not difficult.

If you already have an established plant, you can propagate your own plants by root division or cutting away root suckers.

If you choose to raise your own plants from seed, soak seed overnight to assist with germination.

Sowing should be made into modules or seed trays during late winter or early spring.

Leave trays/modules in the greenhouse or cold frame and prick out when seedlings are large enough to handle.

Plants should be fully hardened before putting outside and may take up to a year to fully establish before being ready to plant into final position.

When planting, spacings should be 75cm (30 inches) between plants with at least 90cm (36 inches) between individual rows. 

Growing & General Cultivation

Allow plants in their first growing season to fully establish. Remove any flowering spikes in year one to enable the plant to put all of its energy into rooting.

Keep plants weed-free and well-watered during the growing season.

Mulch well to conserve moisture.

In the autumn, plants will naturally die down like any other perennial plant and all foliage can be cut away and removed.

If severe weather is forecast, mulch plants to protect roots, especially while plants are young.

Feed as necessary. 

Pests & Diseases

Globe Artichokes, in general, are trouble-free. The odd issue may arise:

Slugs and Snails can be a problem for young plants in the early stages of growth or newly emerging shoots in the spring on more established plants. For remedies - see Product Directory. 

Black Fly can sometimes attack the developing buds, especially during warm weather. Spray with an organic pesticide - see Product Directory.

Harvesting

Do not harvest in year one, allow plants to fully develop.

Side shoots can be removed in subsequent years to allow larger buds to mature to a decent size.

Cut buds with secateurs before the flower begins to open, leaving a small section of stem attached.

Eat immediately as Globe Artichoke does not store well and is at its best when consumed fresh.

If buds have started to flower, either remove or allow them to fully open. At this stage they become inedible.

To cook, peel away the outer scales and place in boiling water for30-40 minutes until remaining scales are tender.

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