Artichoke

Garden Help > Vegetables

UC Links

How to grow

• Growing Artichokes
• Grow and harvest artichokes [video, 4:10]

Pest management: Artichoke Pest Management

The Basics

Artichokes are considered a cool season crop but can be grown as a perennial in Santa Clara County. They require lots of sun, plenty of water, and occasional protection from frost.

When to plant: September–October

Harvest window

• Two crops per year can be expected. After spring harvest, cut off the old stalks just below ground. New shoots will develop and produce a fall crop.
• Each flowering stem produces one large artichoke at the tip and several smaller ones below.
• Harvest the central bud first, when scales are tightly closed and the globe is about the size of an orange. The stem should still be supple 2 inches beneath the globe.
• Avoid artichokes that have already begun to open as they will be tough in texture.

Care overview

• Artichoke plants reach a height of 3 or 4 feet and a spread of up to 6 feet in diameter, so allow plenty of space for them to grow. Don't plant them near tree roots, as they don't compete well for nutrients and water.
• Artichokes have an appetite for nitrogen. When planting, mix manure, compost, or other organic matter into the first foot of soil in about equal volumes.
• During the growing season, the artichoke needs to be irrigated about once weekly.
• After spring harvest, cut old stalks just below ground level. New shoots will develop and produce a fall crop.

More links

• Artichoke Production in California
• UC Master Gardeners of Sonoma on artichokes

Recommended Varieties for Santa Clara County^*

^* Many other varieties may also do well here in Santa Clara County. This list is based on UC Master Gardener trials, taste tests, and feedback from local growers.