Artichokes not only look exotic, their origin is also quite exotic: They originally come from the eastern Mediterranean and can even be found wild in Persia and Africa. So the question comes up: are artichokes hardy? Or do you need winter protection? Learn how to overwinter your artichokes below.

Artichokes can be overwintered outside, but they need winter protection

Artichokes are partially hardy

Despite their warm place of origin, the artichoke varieties available from us usually tolerate Central European winters, provided they are adequately protected. So there is no need to dig up the artichokes and overwinter them in a frost-free place, although that is of course also an option.

Overwintering artichokes step by step

  • Mix a bucket of sand with some leaves, straw or manure.
  • Remove the dried inflorescences.
  • Using sharp pruning shears, cut the leaves down to about 5cm above the ground.
  • Now put a layer of the sand mixture about 15 to 20 cm thick on and around the artichoke.
  • Then add brushwood to the mixture until the entire protection is approximately 30cm thick.

Dig up artichokes for overwintering

If you want to be on the safe side or live in an area where it gets particularly cold in winter, you can also dig up your artichoke. To do this, proceed as follows:

  • Remove inflorescences and leaves as described above.
  • Using a sharp spade, prick the area around the artichoke as deep as possible. Artichokes have very deep roots and it is advisable to preserve as much of the root as possible so as not to unnecessarily weaken the artichoke.
  • Then carefully dig up the entire root ball.
  • Clean the root, put it in a planter and fill it with sand.
  • Keep the pot in a cool place at around 15 degrees.
  • Don't forget to water your artichoke every now and then to keep the root from drying out.

Category:

Vegetable garden