As this site presents the information, one may conclude there are many good things about artichokes. Let's answer some questions.

Can I grow artichokes in my back yard?

Yes, they CAN grow many places. Hard frosts are bad for the plant. Plant them in late fall in places without hard frosts or summer or early spring otherwise. In the spring, they can grow to full size in one year. Harvest what you want, then cut them back and see if they will come back.

How can I tell when they are ready to harvest?

The center artichoke (for seeded or transplanted small artichoke) will get the largest. After that, they do get smaller. Over-mature artichokes are BAD. Therefore a hard, tough stem to cut means you waited too long.

Can I dry them?

Yes. At my home we take over mature artichokes and air dry them. We just leave them out in the sun. Over-mature artichokes are tougher and drier than the ones you buy in the store. Commercial producers use hot air to dry the plants. It is faster.

Can I buy some seed from you?

Sorry, no. That is not our business. There are several seed sources on the web, Territorial Seed is just one site. I don’t own surplus stock and I don’t buy from them. So use at your own risk.

Can I buy artichokes from you?

Again, we must tell you we no longer sell artichokes directly. You'll find a number of distributors and finer retail grocers who will gladly sell you produce from Baroda Farms and other quality growers.