growing artichokes in containers

To grow an artichoke in a container, select a pot that is at least 3 feet (1 m.) wide and a foot (30 cm.) or more deep. Amend a good quality, well-draining potting mix with plenty of compost. Fertilize the container grown artichoke in midsummer with either commercial fertilizer or a top dressing of compost.

How many artichokes do you get from one plant?

A healthy plant should produce six to nine buds per plant. The main harvest usually occurs in April and May. Select buds for their size, compactness and age. All buds of suitable size should be harvested by cutting the stem 2 to 3 inches below the base of the bud.

How long does it take to grow an artichoke?

Artichokes take at least 110-150 days to reach maturity, if planting from seed and 100 days from divisions. Most do not flower until the second year of growth. Once the harvest is over, cut the plants back to 1-2 inches off the ground to try for a second harvest.

How much space does an artichoke plant need?

Artichoke plants require full sun, so if you plant them too closely together, the large plants can shade smaller ones. Plant your artichoke transplants in a row at an interval of 4 to 6 feet. Placing rows 6 to 8 feet apart will allow room to easily water, fertilize and harvest.

Are artichokes easy to grow?

Artichokes are easy to grow in mild climates where the growing season is long and temperatures are not extreme. These artichokes are left to bloom for ornament. This is especially useful in areas where they are perennial.

What part of the artichoke is poisonous?

The only part you can't eat is the hairy choke inside, and the sharp, fibrous outer portion of the leaves. The choke is not poisonous, nor is the tough part of the leaves, but it is a choking hazard, and quite aptly named.

How do you know when artichokes are ready to harvest?

Harvest artichokes when the buds are full and still tight. Harvest artichokes when the buds are tight and firm and about 3 inches (8 cm) in diameter. Harvest buds before the petals begin to open. If you wait until the bud opens, the petals will no longer be tender.

Do artichokes grow back every year?

Where winters are mild, you can grow globe artichokes as perennials, replacing plants every four years. In most areas, though, globe artichokes must be grown as annuals. Growing artichokes from seeds started in late winter will produce edible buds in midsummer and fall.

Can I plant artichokes from the grocery store?

You can even grow a mixture of different varieties of artichokes that you can't find in a grocery store. Last time I saw artichokes in the grocery store, they were on sale for 2 for $4.00.

Do artichokes need full sun?

Artichokes thrive in full sun to partial shade. They also need light, fertile, well-drained soil—sandy or loam is ideal.

Why are my artichokes so small?

Artichokes are sensitive to too little or too much moisture in the soil. Prolonged periods of drought result in small numbers of tiny, stunted buds with weak stems.

How deep do artichoke roots go?

The roots of artichokes spread deep and wide into the ground, so provide them with at least 6 feet of growing space.

How do you propagate artichokes?

Insert a serrated knife straight down into the soil between the base of the mature artichoke plant and a new shoot growing from it that is about 8 inches tall. Saw the soil back and forth a few inches to separate the roots of the shoot from the rest of the root ball.

Where do Artichokes grow best?

Artichokes are best grown in damp weather, with cool summer temperatures and mild winters. They are grown commercially in coastal areas of Northern California. Artichokes are perennials that can survive for up to 6 years in mild-winter areas.

What are the benefits of eating artichoke?

Artichokes are low in fat while rich in fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Particularly high in folate and vitamins C and K, they also supply important minerals, such as magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, and iron.

Can you grow an artichoke plant from an artichoke?

Modern day gardeners wishing to cultivate artichokes in other climates can do so by planting artichoke from seeds and growing them as annuals. Rooting artichoke cuttings is another method of artichoke plant propagation and is used in areas where they can be grown as perennials.

Are artichokes poisonous to dogs?

Artichokes are not a veggie we typically associate with giving our dog for its nutritional benefits, but in moderation, artichokes are safe and very healthy for a dog's diet. Dogs are able to eat the whole artichoke - leaves, stems, and the hearts as well.

What happens if you eat the choke of an artichoke?

The choke in the middle will become the blossom, and the spiny leaves of the exterior support and protect the flower. The large outer leaves, tender heart and firm bottom are all tasty; even the stem can be peeled and eaten. ... Eating the hairy choke can cause a choking hazard. Baby artichokes are completely edible.

What is the easiest way to cook an artichoke?

Bring water and salt to a boil. There should be enough water to cover the artichoke. Add artichoke to the water, reduce to a simmer, cover and cook until the leaves can be easily pulled off, about 20 to 35 minutes depending on the size. Drain and cool before eating.

Can you eat artichokes after they flower?

The artichoke bud can be eaten as a vegetable... after flowering, it's virtually inedible. ... If you're growing artichokes for their flower or simply leave a few large buds on the plant to bloom, beware of volunteer plants the following season!

How do you preserve fresh artichokes?

After the artichokes are partially cooked, remove them from the water with a slotted spoon, and move them to a colander or drying rack to drain upside down. Once they're dry, you can place them on a tray (still pointed upside down) and put them in the coldest part of the freezer to flash freeze.

How do you harvest and prepare artichokes?

Stand the artichoke in a stainless steel pot with 2-3 inches (5-7.5 cm) of water so that it is not completely water cooked. Cook or steam the choke until the stem end is tender–about 20 to 40 minutes. Remove the thistle-like choke and the small purple leaves covering it with a teaspoon after cooking.