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Artichoke (Cynara cardunculus) has a rich culinary history that dates back several centuries to the time of ancient Romans. The propagation of artichoke plants is believed to have originated in the Mediterranean area where this perennial thistle was considered a delicacy.
Artichokes are a delicious and healthy addition to any garden. But buying new plants every season can get expensive. Propagating artichoke plants from existing ones is an easy, cost-effective way to increase your yield year after year.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn when and how to propagate artichoke plants using simple techniques even beginner gardeners can master
When is the Best Time to Propagate Artichokes?
The ideal time to propagate artichoke plants is during late fall or early winter when the plants become dormant. This ensures the cuttings you take will be healthy and vigorous.
However, you can propagate artichokes at any time as long as you follow proper care instructions.
Step-by-Step Guide to Propagating Artichoke Plants
Propagating artichoke plants is a straightforward process. Follow these simple steps for success:
Choose a Healthy Stem
- Select a stem that is at least 6 inches long and 1⁄4 inch thick.
- Make sure the stem is green and free of damage or disease. Older, woody stems won’t root well.
Cut the Stem at an Angle
- Use sharp, sterilized pruning shears to cut the stem at a 45 degree angle.
- This ensures maximum cambium exposure for better root development.
Remove Most Leaves
- Strip off all but 2-3 leaves from the bottom half of the stem.
- Too many leaves will inhibit root growth by diverting energy.
Dip in Rooting Hormone
- Dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder or gel.
- Rooting hormones speed up root formation.
Plant in Potting Mix
- Plant the stem in a container filled with loose, well-draining potting mix.
- Leave 2-3 inches of the stem exposed above the soil.
Water and Wait
- Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy.
- Roots should emerge in 2-4 weeks. Resist the urge to disturb the cutting.
- Transplant into garden or larger pot once well-rooted.
Propagation Tips and Tricks
Follow these tips to ensure successful artichoke propagation:
- Take cuttings first thing in the morning when stems are fully hydrated.
- Use a sharp, clean knife or pruners to prevent crushing stems.
- Cut just below a node where leaves emerge to encourage root growth.
- Change the water in propagation vessels frequently to prevent rotting.
- Gradually expose cuttings to sunlight over 7-10 days to harden off.
- Transplant on an overcast day or in evening to prevent transplant shock.
- Space transplants at least 6 feet apart in fertile, well-drained soil.
Common Propagation Problems and Solutions
| Issue | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No root growth | Using old, damaged stems | Select young, healthy stems |
| Rotting cuttings | Excess moisture | Improve drainage; don’t overwater |
| Slow growth | Inadequate light | Gradually increase sunlight |
| Leggy growth | Insufficient nutrients | Use complete fertilizer |
| Crowding | Thin stems; increase spacing |
Enjoy an Abundant Artichoke Harvest
With this simple propagation technique, you can easily multiply your artichoke harvest season after season. Avoid purchasing overpriced starter plants and take advantage of your existing plants.
In just a few weeks, you can have a flourishing artichoke patch bursting with vigorous, productive plants. Revel in the bountiful harvest as you cook up these tasty, nutritious treats for your family!
How to Propagate an Artichoke
As a tender perennial, artichokes are winter hardy in USDA zones 7 through 11. Modern-day gardeners wishing to cultivate artichokes in other climates can do so by planting artichoke from seeds and growing them as annuals. Rooting artichoke cuttings is another method of artichoke plant propagation and is used in areas where they can be grown as perennials.
Planting Artichokes from Seeds
When growing artichokes as an annual crop in cooler climates, its best to start the seeds indoors approximately two months before the last frost date. It was long believed artichokes grown from seed were inferior to those propagated by rooting cuttings. This is no longer the case. Follow these tips for successfully planting artichokes from seeds:
- Use a quality seed starter soil mix. Plant seeds to depth of ½ inch (13 mm.). Moisten the soil with warm water. Germinate artichokes at 60-80 degrees F. (16-27 C.). Periodically fertilize the seedlings according to product directions.
- Transplant outdoors after the last frost, when the plants have two sets of leaves and have reached a height of 8 to 10 inches (20.5-25.5 cm.) tall.
- Plant in fertile, rich, well-draining soil. Choose a location which receives full sun. Space artichokes three to six feet (1-2 m.) apart.
- Avoid planting too deep. Plant the top of the root ball level with garden soil. Pat the soil firmly around the artichoke and water.
Planting artichokes from seeds can also be used to establish perennial beds in areas where they are winter hardy. Artichokes reach peak production in their second year and continue to produce for up to six years. Mature plants will send up one or more offshoots which is an alternative method of artichoke plant propagation:
- Allow the offshoot to reach a height of 8 inches (20.5 cm.) before removing it from the mature plant. The ideal time to remove offshoots is during the fall or winter dormancy period.
- Use a sharp knife or spade to separate the roots of the offshoot from the mature plant. Take care not to damage the roots of either plant.
- Use the spade to dig in a circle around the offshoot to loosen it from the soil. Carefully remove the offshoot and repack the soil around the mature plant.
- Choose a sunny location with fertile, well-draining soil to plant the offshoot. Artichokes need room to grow. Space perennial plants 6 feet (2 m.) apart.
Harvest artichokes when the lowest bract on the bud begins to open. In warmer climates with a longer season, harvesting two crops per year is possible.
How to Propagate Artichokes
FAQ
How to multiply artichoke plants?
What is the propagation method of globe artichoke?
When to divide artichoke plants?
How do you propagate artichokes?
Rooting artichoke cuttings is another method of artichoke plant propagation and is used in areas where they can be grown as perennials. When growing artichokes as an annual crop in cooler climates, it’s best to start the seeds indoors approximately two months before the last frost date.
How long do artichokes produce?
Artichokes reach peak production in their second year and continue to produce for up to six years. Mature plants will send up one or more offshoots which is an alternative method of artichoke plant propagation: Allow the offshoot to reach a height of 8 inches (20.5 cm.) before removing it from the mature plant.
How do you harvest artichokes?
When harvesting artichokes, simply cut them from the plant at a 45-degree angle when they are about three inches in diameter. Cut spent stalks down to the ground to allow room for other stalks to grow. When the plant is done bearing fruit, cut it down to just above the ground and apply a heavy layer of mulch.
How far apart should artichokes be planted?
Space artichokes three to six feet (1-2 m.) apart. Avoid planting too deep. Plant the top of the root ball level with garden soil. Pat the soil firmly around the artichoke and water. Planting artichokes from seeds can also be used to establish perennial beds in areas where they are winter hardy.