Colorado Star Artichoke (75 Days)

The Colorado Star Artichoke is an early maturing artichoke, bred specifically for areas with cold winters where overwintering is not possible. Produces 2-3 ½ ” purple to greenish-purple buds with some variation from plant to plant. Developed by the same breeder as Imperial Star. Perennial in zone 7 and above.

15 seeds

PLANTING

Cynara scolymus

Germination: 10-18 days

Germination Temperature: Optimum soil temperatures 70-80ºF

Seed Sowing Depth: 1/2" deep

Sowing Indoors: 8-12 weeks before the last frost. Sow 2-3 seeds per cell/pot. Sowing into individual biodegradable peat/cow pots reduces root damage when transplanting. Before transplanting outside, vernalization is required for growth in the north (zone 6 and below). To induce first-year bud formation, set the seedlings out for 10 days at temperatures of 45-50ºF.  Transplant after last frost, 24-36" apart

Sowing Outdoors: Sow Colorado Star Artichoke seeds in the fall if you live in zone 7 and above. 

Harvest - Just below the bud when they are firm and still closed

Tips - Artichokes are heavy feeders and need fertile well-drained soil. Amend soil with compost or well-rotted manure before planting.