Flower Vegetables

Artichokes are most productive when planted at the right time for your climate. After many seasons growing artichokes in both coastal and inland California—and helping gardeners across the country—I’ve learned that timing is the single most important factor for strong plants and abundant buds. A well-planned month-by-month calendar helps you stay ahead of weather shifts…

Growing artichokes successfully comes down to two essential practices: steady moisture and consistent nutrition. Over years of growing artichokes in both the cool coastal influence of Sonoma Valley and the warmer inland pockets nearby, I’ve learned that how you water and fertilize has a direct, visible effect on bud size, tenderness, and total yield. Artichokes…

Artichokes aren’t difficult to grow, but they do need thoughtful, seasonal care to stay productive. After years of growing artichokes in Sonoma Valley—where winters are mild and summers warm—I’ve learned that managing these large perennials comes down to three essential practices: pruning, mulching, and overwintering. These steps keep plants vigorous, reduce disease, and help you…

Overwintering artichokes properly is one of the most important steps for ensuring bigger, tender buds in the following season. Over decades of growing artichokes in Sonoma Valley—both in wide perennial beds and containers—I’ve seen firsthand that plants that survive winter healthy and well-protected produce larger, more abundant buds than those neglected during dormancy. Here’s a…

Fresh artichokes are at their best when stored properly. Whether you’ve just harvested tender buds from the garden or brought home a batch from the market, the way you handle them immediately after harvest makes a big difference in flavor and storage life. Artichokes don’t last long at room temperature, but with the right steps,…