key growing information

Growing Artichokes From Seed

How to grow globe artichokes from seed: starting transplants, spacing, the cold treatment (vernalization) plants need to set buds, fall sowing in mild areas, and harvest.

By Hensley’s Seed Co. September 3, 2026

Artichokes - Key Growing Information

SCIENTIFIC NAME:

Cynara cardunculus var. scolymus

CULTURE:

Give artichokes rich, well-drained ground with a pH of 6.5–7.0. Start seed indoors 8–12 weeks ahead of transplanting, 1/4" deep, 2–3 seeds per cell in 50-cell trays or in individual pots. Germinate at 70–80°F (21–26°C), then grow on at 60–70°F (15–21°C) by day and 50–60°F (10–15°C) at night. Thin to a single seedling per cell or pot. Plant out at 6–12 weeks old, 2–3' apart in rows 3–6' apart, and guard against frost.

DAYS TO MATURITY:

Counted from transplanting.

IMPORTANT COLD TREATMENT (VERNALIZATION):

To form buds, plants need about 10 days at 45–50°F (7.2–10°C). In mild climates, a fall-planted crop gets this chilling naturally over winter. For spring plantings, young plants can be chilled in a refrigerator or walk-in cooler. Timing transplanting so seedlings meet these temperatures outdoors can work, but results are less dependable.

MILD AREAS:

If winter lows stay above 14°F (-10°C), sow in fall for a spring harvest.

HARVEST:

Cut buds at the size you want, while the bracts are still tight.SEEDS/LB. (AVG.): 11,500.

PACKET:

25 seeds per packet.