Artichoke Seeds آرٹیچوک

10 healthy Seeds in a pkt

Artichoke (Cynara scolymus)

Artichoke is a unique, edible perennial vegetable grown for its flower buds, which are harvested before the flowers bloom. It’s a member of the thistle family and is known for its tender, flavorful hearts. Artichokes are rich in fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins, especially vitamin C and folate. Though not common in home gardens across Pakistan, they can grow very well in cooler regions or with proper care in plains during winter.

—

How to Grow Artichoke from Seeds in Pakistan

1. Sowing Season (Best Time to Sow):

Ideal Time: September to November in most regions of Pakistan (especially Punjab, KP, and northern areas).

In cooler regions like Murree or Quetta, it can also be planted in early spring (February–March).

2. Seed Preparation:

Soak seeds in warm water for 6–8 hours before sowing to improve germination.

You may also start seeds indoors in trays or pots 6–8 weeks before transplanting.

3. Soil Preparation:

Prefers well-drained, fertile loamy soil enriched with compost or aged manure.

Soil pH should be 6.5 to 7.5.

Dig the soil 12–18 inches deep and mix organic matter thoroughly.

4. Sowing Method:

Sow seeds 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep in nursery trays or directly in beds if temperatures are mild.

Space seeds 2–3 inches apart in nursery trays.

Germination usually takes 10–20 days at 18–22°C.

5. Transplanting:

Transplant seedlings when they are 4–6 inches tall and have at least 2–3 true leaves.

Space plants 3 to 4 feet apart as they grow quite large.

Rows should be about 4 feet apart.

6. Sunlight and Temperature:

Artichokes need full sun (6–8 hours/day).

Ideal growing temperatures: 15°C to 25°C.

Protect from frost in extreme winters with mulch or covering.

7. Watering:

Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.

Deep watering once or twice a week is sufficient, especially in dry weather.

Mulching helps retain moisture and suppress weeds.

8. Feeding (Fertilization):

Apply a balanced fertilizer (e.g., NPK 10-10-10) every 4–6 weeks.

Add compost around the base of the plant every month during the growing season.

9. Harvesting:

Artichokes are usually ready to harvest in 6–8 months from seed.

Harvest when the buds are tight and firm, about the size of a tennis ball.

Cut the bud with 1–2 inches of stem.

10. Overwintering (for perennial growth):

In cold areas, protect plants with mulch or straw in winter.

In warmer parts of Pakistan, plants can survive year-round.

11. Seed Saving:

If you let one or two buds bloom, they will produce purple flowers that later form seeds.

Dry the flowers, collect seeds, and store in a cool, dry place.

—

Additional Tips:

Artichokes are large and striking plants, so they also add ornamental value.

Companion plants: parsley, lettuce, and coriander grow well nearby.

Avoid planting near potatoes or sunflowers.

—