Globe artichokes (Cynara cardunculus var. scolymus) are majestic plants, producing edible flower buds that are both a culinary delight and a striking ornamental feature in the garden. For beginner gardeners, the prospect of growing these unique vegetables can seem daunting. However, selecting the right globe artichoke variety is a crucial first step that can significantly increase your chances of success. This guide will delve into the key factors to consider when choosing a globe artichoke variety, highlighting options ideal for beginners and providing practical advice for cultivation.
Understanding Globe Artichoke Varieties
Globe artichokes are members of the thistle family and are typically grown for their fleshy, immature flower buds, which are harvested before they open. While all globe artichokes share a similar growth habit and general appearance, there are distinct differences between varieties that can impact their suitability for specific climates, growing conditions, and gardener experience levels. These differences often revolve around:
- Climate Tolerance: Some varieties are more heat-tolerant or cold-hardy than others.
- Maturity Time: Certain varieties mature faster, making them a good choice for shorter growing seasons.
- Yield: The number and size of buds produced can vary.
- Pest and Disease Resistance: Some varieties are naturally more resilient.
- Flavor Profile: While subtle, there can be minor differences in taste.
- Growing Method: Some varieties are better suited for container growing.
Key Factors for Beginners to Consider
When embarking on your artichoke-growing journey, prioritizing ease of care, resilience, and predictable results is paramount. As a beginner, focusing on these aspects will build confidence and ensure a rewarding experience.
Climate Suitability
Artichokes thrive in temperate climates with mild winters and cool summers. However, even within these general parameters, specific varieties can perform better.
- Cold Hardiness: If you live in a region with harsh winters where the ground freezes deeply, look for varieties known for their cold hardiness. These plants can often overwinter with protection, allowing for continued production in subsequent years.
- Heat Tolerance: Conversely, if you experience hot summers, opt for varieties that can withstand higher temperatures without bolting (prematurely flowering) or experiencing significant stress.
Ease of Growth and Maintenance
Beginner-friendly varieties are typically forgiving of minor mistakes and require less specialized care.
- Disease Resistance: Look for varieties that are less susceptible to common artichoke ailments like fungal diseases.
- Pest Resistance: While all plants can attract pests, some varieties are less appealing to common artichoke pests such as aphids.
- Vigor: A vigorous variety will establish well and grow strongly, requiring less fuss to get started.
Maturity Time
Understanding when you can expect your first harvest can influence your choice, especially if you have a shorter growing season.
- Early Season Varieties: These mature faster, offering quicker gratification and a chance for multiple harvests if conditions are favorable.
- Main Season Varieties: These may take a little longer but can offer a more substantial and consistent yield.
Propagation Method
Artichokes can be grown from seed or from root divisions (often sold as crowns).
- Seeds: Growing from seed offers a wider variety of choices and can be more cost-effective. However, some varieties do not grow “true from seed,” meaning the offspring may not be identical to the parent plant. For beginners, choosing a variety known to grow true from seed is advisable.
- Crowns/Divisions: These are offshoots from established plants. They establish more quickly and are often more reliable for beginners as they bypass the seedling stage, which can sometimes be delicate.
Recommended Globe Artichoke Varieties for Beginners
Several globe artichoke varieties stand out for their ease of cultivation, adaptability, and excellent production, making them ideal for those new to growing these fascinating plants.
‘Imperial Star’
‘Imperial Star’ is a hybrid variety that is exceptionally well-suited for beginners. It is known for its early maturity and its ability to grow well from seed, producing consistent results. This variety is also more compact than some older types, making it a good option for smaller gardens or even container growing.
‘Green Globe’
‘Green Globe’ is a classic and widely available variety that has earned its reputation for reliability. It is a vigorous grower and produces abundant, medium-sized buds. While it can be grown from seed, starting with crowns is often recommended for a quicker and more assured start. It is also quite cold-hardy.
‘Violetta di Chioggia’
For gardeners in milder climates, ‘Violetta di Chioggia’ offers a beautiful purple-hued bud and a delicious flavor. It is generally considered easier to grow than some other heirloom purple varieties and is often available as crowns, simplifying the initial planting process. It is also quite productive.
‘Tenerife’
‘Tenerife’ is a more heat-tolerant variety that can perform well in warmer regions where other artichokes might struggle. It produces large, flavorful buds and is known for its productivity. While it can be grown from seed, it is often more readily available as crowns.
Key Facts and Comparison of Beginner-Friendly Varieties
To help you make an informed decision, here’s a comparison of some of the most beginner-friendly globe artichoke varieties:
| Variety | Origin/Type | Maturity | Cold Hardiness | Heat Tolerance | Best Propagation | Bud Size | Ease of Growth |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Imperial Star | Hybrid | Early | Moderate | Good | Seed or Crown | Medium | Very Easy |
| Green Globe | Heirloom | Main Season | Good | Moderate | Crown (Recommended) | Medium to Large | Easy |
| Violetta di Chioggia | Heirloom (Italian) | Main Season | Moderate | Moderate | Crown (Recommended) | Medium | Easy (in mild climates) |
| Tenerife | Heirloom | Main Season | Moderate | Good | Crown (Recommended) | Large | Easy to Moderate |
Steps to Choosing and Planting Your Artichoke Variety
The process of selecting and planting your globe artichoke variety involves a few key considerations to ensure a successful start.
Assess Your Local Climate
Before you even look at varieties, understand your growing zone and the typical weather patterns.
- Identify your USDA Plant Hardiness Zone. This will give you a general idea of your minimum winter temperatures.
- Note your average first and last frost dates. This is crucial for determining planting times and understanding your growing season length.
- Consider summer heat. If your summers are consistently hot and dry, prioritize heat-tolerant varieties.
Research Variety Availability
Once you have a clear understanding of your climate, begin researching which varieties are readily available in your region.
- Local Nurseries: Check with local garden centers and nurseries. They often stock varieties that perform well in your area and can offer specific advice.
- Online Seed/Plant Retailers: Many reputable online retailers specialize in vegetable seeds and plants. Read their descriptions carefully for climate recommendations.
- Seed Swaps and Gardening Groups: Connect with local gardening communities. You might find unique varieties and valuable local knowledge.
Understand Propagation Options
Decide whether you want to start from seed or purchase established crowns.
- Seed Starting: If you choose to start from seed, select a variety known to grow true from seed for the most predictable results. Artichoke seeds can be slow to germinate and may require starting indoors several weeks before the last frost.
- Crowns: Purchasing crowns is generally the easiest method for beginners. They are essentially root systems with a few shoots, giving them a significant head start. Look for healthy, firm crowns with no signs of mold or rot.
Consider Your Garden Space
Globe artichokes can become quite large plants, often reaching 3-5 feet in height and spreading 3-5 feet wide.
- Spacing: Ensure you have adequate space for the mature plants. Overcrowding can lead to poor air circulation, increasing the risk of disease.
- Container Growing: Some varieties, like ‘Imperial Star’, can be grown in large containers (at least 15-20 gallons) if your garden space is limited. Ensure containers have excellent drainage.
Planting Your Chosen Variety
Once you have your variety selected and have purchased your seeds or crowns, it’s time to get them into the ground.
Soil Preparation
Artichokes prefer rich, well-draining soil.
- Amend the Soil: Before planting, incorporate plenty of organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure. This will improve soil structure, fertility, and drainage.
- Soil pH: Artichokes prefer a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH, ideally between 6.5 and 7.0.
Planting Seeds
If starting from seed, follow these general guidelines:
- Start Indoors: Sow seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before your last expected frost.
- Depth: Plant seeds about 1/4 inch deep in a seed-starting mix.
- Temperature: Keep the soil consistently moist and at a temperature of around 70-75°F (21-24°C) for optimal germination.
- Transplant: Harden off seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions before transplanting them into the garden after the danger of frost has passed.
Planting Crowns
If planting crowns, the process is more straightforward:
- Timing: Plant crowns in early spring as soon as the soil can be worked, or in the fall in milder climates.
- Depth: Dig a hole deep enough to accommodate the roots, typically about 6-8 inches deep.
- Placement: Place the crown in the hole with the shoots pointing upwards.
- Backfill: Cover with soil, leaving the top of the crown just below the soil surface.
- Spacing: Space plants 3-4 feet apart.
- Watering: Water thoroughly after planting.
Pros and Cons of Choosing Different Varieties
Every variety has its unique advantages and disadvantages, especially when viewed through the lens of a beginner gardener. Understanding these can help you manage expectations and tailor your approach.
| Variety | Pros for Beginners | Cons for Beginners |
|---|---|---|
| Imperial Star | Very early harvest, good from seed, more compact growth, good heat tolerance. | Hybrid vigor might mean less seed saving potential for true-to-type plants. |
| Green Globe | Reliable producer, cold hardy, widely available, classic flavor. | Can be slower to establish from seed, requires good overwintering protection in colder zones. |
| Violetta di Chioggia | Attractive purple buds, good flavor, often available as crowns for easier start. | Less heat tolerant than some, may require more specific overwintering care in marginal climates. |
| Tenerife | Good heat tolerance, produces large buds, reliable yield. | Can be a larger plant requiring more space, less common as seed. |
Tips for Success with Your Artichoke Choice
Regardless of the variety you choose, following some general best practices will enhance your growing experience.
- Mulching: Apply a thick layer of mulch around your plants to retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
- Watering: Artichokes are heavy feeders and drinkers. Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry spells and when buds are developing. Avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of fungal diseases.
- Fertilizing: Feed your plants with a balanced fertilizer in early spring and again after the main harvest to encourage continued growth and bud production.
- Overwintering: In colder climates, protect your artichoke plants during winter. After the first hard frost, cut back the foliage to about a foot high and cover the plant with a thick layer of straw, leaves, or compost. You can also use burlap or a frost blanket.
- Harvesting: Harvest buds when they are firm and plump, but before the bracts (the outer leaves of the bud) begin to open. Use a sharp knife to cut the stem about 1-2 inches below the bud.
Conclusion
Choosing the right globe artichoke variety is a foundational step towards a successful and enjoyable gardening experience. For beginners, varieties like ‘Imperial Star’ and ‘Green Globe’ offer a fantastic starting point due to their reliability, ease of growth, and adaptability. By considering your local climate, understanding the specific characteristics of different varieties, and following good planting and care practices, you can confidently cultivate these magnificent plants and savor the rewarding experience of harvesting your own delicious globe artichokes. Happy gardening!
