How to grow globe artichokes in a raised bed

Globe artichokes are as ornamental as they are delicious — big silver-leaved perennials whose unopened flower buds are the gourmet treat. Give one room in a raised bed and it'll crop for years.

Quick facts

• Position: full sun
• Spacing: one plant per 1 m — they get big
• Tub depth: our 35 cm depth
• Time to harvest: first buds in the first spring

When should I plant globe artichokes?

Globe artichokes are perennials — plant offsets or seedlings in autumn or spring for years of harvest. They love a cool-winter, mild-summer climate. Our free garden calendar shows the right months for your postcode.

• Subtropical (Brisbane & SEQ): March to April
• Temperate (Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth): August to October
• Cool & mountain (Tasmania, Canberra, highlands): September to November
• Tropical (Cairns, Darwin): Not really suited to this zone
• Arid inland: August to September

How do I grow globe artichokes in a raised bed?

Plant into rich, free-draining mix with plenty of room — a mature plant is over a metre across. Cut it back after cropping and divide clumps every few years.

How often should I water and feed globe artichokes?

Water well through the growing and budding season; feed generously, as they're hungry plants.

What pests attack globe artichokes?

Keep an eye out for aphids and slugs and snails. Most are easily managed — see our safe pest guide.

What diseases affect globe artichokes?

The main ones are powdery mildew. Good airflow, morning watering and steady moisture prevent most.

What grows well with globe artichokes?

A statement perennial; give it a permanent spot at the back of a bed. See our companion planting guide.

When do I harvest globe artichokes?

Cut the buds while they're still tight and firm, before the scales open. Any you miss open into spectacular purple thistle flowers the bees adore.

More growing guides: Jerusalem artichokes, asparagus and rhubarb.

Plan your patch: our free garden calendar shows what to plant now where you live. Ready to grow? Browse our raised garden beds or build your own with the garden bed builder.

Image: Jengod, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.