How to Grow Artichokes From Seeds

Artichokes originate in the warm, dry Mediterranean region, where the immature flower buds are eaten as a delicacy. They command a hefty price at most markets and many gardeners turn to growing artichoke plants at home to harvest the fresh buds for eating. Although most modern artichoke strains are grown using cuttings or division, cultivars such as Harmony, Purple of Romagna and Green Globe Improved rely on seeds to reproduce and will bear a normal crop of flower buds in 175 days if planted in early spring.

4-inch-deep plastic pots
Medium-grit sand
Potting soil
Spray bottle

Instructions

- 1
  Start artichoke seeds indoors eight to 12 weeks before the last killing frost in spring if you live in a cooler climate, or six to eight weeks before the last frost if you live in a milder climate such as coastal California.
- 2
  Fill 4-inch-deep plastic pots with a mixture of one part medium-grit sand and three parts potting soil. Firm the soil mixture to create an even surface. Mist the soil with a spray bottle until the top 2 inches feel moist.
- 3
  Sow two artichoke seeds in each pot. Press the seeds 1/8 inch beneath the soil surface. Sprinkle medium-grit sand over the artichoke seeds to help regulate moisture loss.
- 4
  Place the pots inside a refrigerator for three weeks to cold stratify the seeds. Set the refrigerator to 30 to 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
- 5
  Remove the pots from the refrigerator after the cold stratification period. Place them in a warm room with bright, indirect light. Increase the level and duration of light over the course of one week until they are in full sun for at least six hours each day.
- 6
  Water the seedlings as needed to maintain moisture at a depth of 1 inch. Allow the soil to parch slightly between waterings, but do not let it dry out for more than one day.
- 7
  Thin the seedlings once they grow to 2 inches in height and have a set of mature leaves. Remove the less vigorous of the two seedlings.
- 8
  Move the artichoke seedlings outdoors to a partially shaded spot once nighttime temperatures rise above 50 F and all danger of frost has passed.
- 9
  Transplant the artichoke seedlings into a permanent bed with loamy soil and full sun two weeks after the last predicted frost. Space the artichoke seedlings four feet apart.

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