Artichoke

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…