Artichokes are a rewarding perennial vegetable that thrives with proper winter care. While these plants are hardy in warmer climates, they need extra attention in areas prone to frost. Follow this guide to protect your artichokes and ensure a bountiful harvest next season.
Winter Artichoke Care Basics
Artichokes are native to the Mediterranean, which means they prefer mild winters and well-drained soil. In colder regions, you’ll need to provide extra protection to help them survive the season.
Mulching for Insulation
Mulching is one of the most effective ways to protect your artichoke plants from the cold. Apply a thick layer of organic mulch around the base of the plant to insulate the roots. This helps maintain soil temperature and prevents frost damage.
Pruning and Cleaning
- Remove Dead Leaves: Cut back any yellowed or dead leaves to prevent pests and diseases from overwintering.
- Prune in Late Fall: Trim the plant down to about 12 inches above the ground to encourage healthy regrowth in the spring.
Protecting from Frost
In frost-prone areas, additional protection is essential. Use frost protection products to cover the plants during freezing nights. Ensure the cover doesn’t touch the leaves directly by using stakes or hoops to create a barrier.
Watering Tips
Artichokes require less water during the winter. Keep the soil moist but not soggy, as overwatering can lead to root rot. Ensure the area has good drainage to avoid standing water.
Fertilizing for Spring Growth
Apply a layer of compost or use a balanced fertilizer, such as one from our organic fertilizer collection, to enrich the soil. This prepares the plant for vigorous growth when the weather warms.
Overwintering Artichokes in Cold Climates
- Container Growing: Transfer artichokes into pots and move them to a greenhouse or sheltered area.
- Bury the Crown: In extremely cold areas, dig up the crown and store it in a cool, dry place until spring.
Common Winter Issues and Solutions
- Root Rot: Avoid overwatering and ensure good drainage.
- Pest Infestations: Check for slugs and snails, which can hide under mulch. Use pest control products as needed.
- Frost Damage: Regularly check frost blankets and replace them if damaged.
Recommended Tools and Products
Looking Ahead to Spring
With proper winter care, your artichokes will emerge healthy and ready to produce delicious buds in the spring. Monitor the weather, adjust your care routine as needed, and enjoy the rewards of your hard work when harvest time arrives.
Happy gardening and stay warm this winter!
18 comments
Lynne, you can follow the instructions except if they are not that big, I would not cut them back. But def. cover with a thick layer of mulch and cover the top of the plant.
Hello… I live in zone 8B. I was told that I should plant my baby artichokes in September here. They transplanted well and they’ve grown quite a bit. They are still very small. Is your advice the same for new artichokes overwintering?
Meaghan, the mulch should be put on 6-8 inches deep around the root crown. That will help keep the crown insulated over winter. The mulch can be applied out about a foot (more is ok) around the root crown.
When you say 6-8" of mulch, does that mean 6-8" out from the center of the plant, or 6-8" deep/high from the ground?
Wm, if you live in an area where the ground does not freeze, I would wait to dig up your artichokes until they are starting to go dormant. That will have less stress on the plants than if you dig them up when they are still actively growing. Maybe wait until you get your first frost and then dig them up.