Green Globe Improved Artichoke (Heirloom 85 Days)

Heirloom - 1863. For a century and a half, this choke has been the standard variety in the west. The Green Globe Improved Artichoke produces an abundance of “chokes” over a number of years given the right environmental factors. Plants are dark green, of medium height, and buds are elongated oval with somewhat spiny scales. 

25 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 Green Globe Improved 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.

I