Imperial Star Globe Artichoke Seeds (25 Seeds)

Description

A green artichoke specifically bred for annual production, Imperial Star will produce well-developed artichokes the first year from seed. Plants become 1 1/2-3' tall and have an open growth habit. Each typically produces 1-2 primary buds, which average 3-4" in diameter, and 5-7 smaller secondary buds. Perennial in Zone 7 and warmer otherwise treat as an annual. A Plants (both seedlings and mature) can tolerate light frosts but not hard ones. Imperial Star is the most reliable annual artichoke for northern climates. Producing artichokes the first season from seeds is a major advantage for people growing in colder areas where artichokes will not normally survive the winter. The globe artichoke is a thistle-like vegetable plant native to the Mediterranean region. Although the leaves and stems of artichokes are palatable, it is the bud that is valued. CULTURE: Artichokes are cool season plants. SOIL: Will grow in a variety of soils but prefers deep, fertile, well-drained soil. The plant is deep rooted and requires adequate growing room. FERTILITY: Enrich the soil with manure or compost before planting. Side dressing with a balanced fertilizer at the time of bud set will be beneficial. GERMINATION: Sow indoors 8-10 weeks before last frost. Germinates in 14-21 days at 21-27C. Expect around 70% germination. Grow on at 15-20C. TRANSPLANT: Allow plants to have a cold treatment (8-10 days at 10C) before transplanting out to induce earlier bud formation. SPACING: Space seedlings 2-3 ft. apart in rows 3-4 ft. apart. HARVEST: Should start to produce buds in early September. Cut firm buds by cutting stem 1-2 below bud. Removal of old stems after harvest will promote more stems.