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Globe Artichoke
Cynara scolymus
(sy-nar-ah sco-ly-muss)


Globe artichoke Globe artichoke Globe artichoke flower bud Globe artichoke Globe artichoke Globe artichoke
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Globe Artichoke

What about it?

Artichokes are a perennial crop that will grow to a height of 3 to 6 feet tall, They resemble a thistle. Flower buds form at the top of the stalks.

What is it used for?

The buds of the flowers are edible.

Where does it grow? How do we grow it?

Globe artichokes are a good crop for areas that are warm and damp year-round, although they can also be grown in mild-winter areas if watered heavily during spring and summer. In cold areas, plants are best grown in large tubs and protected through the winter to keep roots alive. Artichokes are heavy feeders and will utilize a good deal of nutrients. Mulching should occur when the plants are 7 inches tall. In the fall, artichoke plants need to be cut back to the ground. If the winters are cold, the plant should be protected by a mulch of some type throughout the winter.

Artichoke plants should be spaced 4 to 6 feet apart in rows 6 to 8 feet apart.

What are its primary problems?

Insects commonly found on the artichoke include the aphid and plume moth.

How do we harvest and store it?

Artichoke buds should be harvested when they are green, unopened, and about the size of an orange. Cut with 1 to 2 inches of stem.

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