Also known as Cynara cardunculus, artichoke is a plant that originated around the Mediterranean region.
The lower portions of the flower of this plant are edible and these are commonly used in preparing healthy dishes.
There are various ways of cooking the vegetable like boiling. The plant is rich in different minerals and vitamins like folate, phosphorus, and magnesium.
There are different varieties of plants like the spined, purple colors big size and green colors big size.
If you want to learn how to grow artichokes in your backyard, it is best that you know some tips about the best ways to cultivate the vegetable.
Proper Cultivation of Artichokes
Where do artichokes grow? Artichokes grow best when planted in soil that is exposed to full sunlight. Before you start cultivating the plant, it is important to get all the materials that you will need.
For this project, you will need mulch, garden trowels, plants, shovels, compost makers, garden spades, and fertilizers.
After getting all the materials, the first step that you need to do is to purchase plants at a local nursery. It is necessary that you start cultivating the plants indoors two to three months before you plan to cultivate the artichokes outdoors.
As soon as the plants are ready, you should select a site with well-drained soil.
Apply organic matter and fertilizers into the soil before transferring the plants. When you plant artichokes, make sure that you allot five feet to six feet between plants.
If you want to retain the moisture of the soil, it is important that you regularly mulch the soil. You can also apply organic fertilizer as well as fish emulsion during spring as well as midsummer.
If you are living in an area with a cold climate, it is important that you treat artichokes as annuals. During fall, it is necessary that you plant artichokes with leaves on top.
When it comes to harvesting, it is best if you harvest the plants before the buds begin to open. It is also advantageous to harvest the plants while they are still green.
Additional Tips and Information
If you live in regions with cold climates, it is beneficial and it is easy if you cultivate the varieties Grande Beurre and Imperial Star.
On the other hand, those who live in areas with hot climates can try cultivating the Texas Hill variety.
This variety can survive in high heat, warm winters as well as alkaline soil.
To avoid cultivating the wrong varieties, it is best to seek advice from professional and experienced gardeners in local nurseries.
