How to grow artichokes 

In our August issue, Phil Dudman shares his top tips for a successful harvest. Here are a few fun facts to get you started: 

• Globe artichokes are native to southern Europe and the Mediterranean, so they’re happiest in areas that experience warm to hot, dry summers.  
• Once established, globe artichokes will keep producing year after year with very little fuss. 
• They dislike humidity, so are not suited to tropical gardens. You can grow them with some success in the subtropics but, be aware, an old-fashioned wet summer is likely to do them in.  
• These are big plants. In full production, they can reach around 1.5m tall and 1.5m wide, so give them plenty of room and lots of sun.  
• They’re not too fussy about soil type, but good drainage is essential.  
• Artichokes can be grown from seed, but results can be variable, particularly when it comes to bud quality. For reliable results, grow them from crowns (often called pups), the fleshy young offshoots of established plants. A few plants from your local nursery will get you started, or you might be able to source pups from a fellow gardener.  
• Before planting, incorporate generous amounts of compost or well-aged manure. If your soil tends to be on the heavier side, plant into mounds or raised beds. This is especially important in subtropical areas to help plants survive ongoing summer downpours. 

Get more of Phil’s advice on planting, growing and harvesting, get your copy of our August issue – on sale now! 
Photo: iStock