Artichokes are no longer a rarity in German gardens and seeds are now available in every hardware store or garden store. But when sowing and planting the exotic flowering vegetables, there are a few things to consider. Find out here how sowing becomes a success.
Artichoke seedlings need warmth to thrive
The right seed
You can either collect the seeds from the flowers of your artichoke yourself in the fall or you can buy seeds in stores. If you buy seeds, you should make sure that the variety is reasonably hardy. There is usually a note here: "Limited winter hardiness" or "For wintering outside with winter protection". Even harvested seeds should be stored in a cool and dry place until sowing.
Sow and grow artichokes
Artichokes are grown on the windowsill in February so they can be harvested that same year. Proceed as follows when sowing:
- Soak the seeds in lukewarm water for two to three hours to increase germination.
- Then put the seeds in pots with potting soil and place them in a warm, bright spot. The seedlings can develop optimally at 20 to 25 degrees.
- Water the substrate regularly so that it never dries out completely.
- After about three weeks, the seedlings should appear.
- If the plants get too big, you should repot them in larger planters.
- When it gets warmer outside, you can occasionally move your young artichoke plants outside so that they get used to being outdoors.
Plant artichokes
After the ice saints, the artichokes can be placed in the bed. Choose a sunny, wind-protected location and ensure sufficient nutrients in the soil by raking in a good portion of compost before planting the artichoke.
Especially at the beginning, make sure that your artichoke gets enough water.
tips
Do not harvest very small buds, but let them bloom. So you not only have a beautiful ornamental shrub in your garden, but you can also collect seeds for propagation.