🌱 Artichoke

Sowing window (UK)	February to March
Minimum soil temperature	5°C at seed depth
Sowing depth	1 cm
Spacing	80 cm apart
Days to germination	14 days
Days to harvest	365 days
Sowing method	Start under cover, transplant out
Frost hardy	Yes
Sun	full-sun
Watering	moderate
Plant family	Asteraceae

When should I sow Artichoke in the UK?

In the UK, sow Artichoke from February to March. It is normally started under cover and transplanted. Wait until the soil has reached 5°C at seed depth rather than going by the calendar - artichoke will sit and rot in cold ground.

What soil temperature does Artichoke need to germinate?

Artichoke needs a minimum soil temperature of 5°C at seed depth to germinate reliably. Below that, germination is slow and patchy, and seed is more likely to rot than sprout. Measure at around 5cm down, in the morning, rather than trusting air temperature.

How deep and how far apart should I sow Artichoke?

For Artichoke, sow it 1cm deep and space plants 80cm apart.

How long does Artichoke take to grow?

Artichoke takes roughly 365 days from sowing to harvest. Seed usually germinates in about 14 days.

Is Artichoke frost hardy?

Yes. Artichoke is frost hardy and will stand through UK frosts, so it can be left out over winter in most of the country.

Sowing data cross-checked against RHS growing guides and UK seed-merchant catalogues. Soil temperatures are the minimum for reliable germination, measured at seed depth.