{"product_id":"purple-italian-globe-artichoke-seeds-heirloom-non-gmo-cynara-cardunculus","title":"Purple Italian Globe Artichoke Seeds, Heirloom, Non GMO, Cynara cardunculus","description":"\u003cp\u003ePurple Italian Globe Artichoke SeedsPerennial \/ Annual Depending on ZoneZone 7 to 11 (grown as an annual in zones 3 to 11)Full Sun to Partial ShadeDays to Maturity: 120Days to Germination: 5 - 10Soil: Hardy, fertile, well-drained soilTender and succulent heirloom Artichoke from Italy produces purple-headed fruits measuring from 3 to 6 in Diameter. More tolerant to heat and cold than most green artichoke strains. Color will fade during preparation.Heirloom, Non-GMOSeeds: 25Latin Name: Cynara cardunculusPlanting Depth: ½  Plant Spacing: 3 Row Spacing: 30 - 36Plant Size: 4 to 5 feet in heightYield: 6-8 Artichokes per plant   They are short-lived perennials in warmer climates but are normally grown as annuals in cooler regions.Because it often takes two years for artichokes to flower, they are normally planted as container plants that are sold in their second year, or from established root crowns. In zones 9 to 11, artichokes can be planted in either the spring or fall. Gardeners in cooler climates should do their planting in the early spring, just after the last frost passes.Plant them in soil that is light and well-drained: Slightly sandy soil (think Mediterranean) is ideal. Artichokes are large plants that should be spaced at least four feet apart—six feet is even better. Artichokes that are grown as annuals, or where the tops will be killed back by frost, will not get as large and can be spaced a little closer.Good drainage is crucial to prevent the roots from rotting, especially in areas where they will be overwintered. However, the soil must also be able to retain water long enough to allow the roots to take it in during hot summers. It is especially important when you are growing your artichokes as perennials to take the time to amend your soil before planting to ensure they will grow well in future years. If your garden soil is poor, consider growing your artichokes in raised beds.Water frequently and deeply—1 - 3 times a week. This will keep flower buds fleshy and tender and develop a strong root system that will keep the plants upright.Start seed indoors, 6-12 weeks before your last frost date. Harden the seedlings off before planting outside, but don't wait until all danger of frost has passed—artichokes need to experience a slight chilling (not freezing) before they will set buds. Transplant a few weeks before last frost. In most areas, buds begin forming in early summer. The center bud will mature first and can be harvested as soon as it has reached about 3 in diameter. Harvest while the leaves are still tightly folded and the bud feels firm. You can cut a 1-3 portion of the stem along with the bud, to make it easier to handle.After the center bud is cut, side shoots will begin growing smaller buds. Harvest when they are firm and reach about 1-3 in diameter. Small buds are be extremely tender and flavorful. This variety should mature to a purple color on the plant before harvesting the artichokes.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Tradewisefurniture","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47701737832585,"sku":"M65ADM4","price":5.57,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0758\/9452\/1993\/files\/Output_31.jpg?v=1785402791","url":"https:\/\/tradewisefurniture.com\/products\/purple-italian-globe-artichoke-seeds-heirloom-non-gmo-cynara-cardunculus","provider":"Tradewisefurniture","version":"1.0","type":"link"}