How to Grow Cardoons

Cardoons are similar to globe artichokes in appearance but are grown for their stalks and thick midribs, which are blanched just before harvesting. The plants make an attractive architectural addition to a border or the vegetable garden. It should be possible to harvest up to ten stems from each plant.

Planting out

Cardoons prefer a well-drained but moisture-retentive soil and a full sun position. They can be planted out from late April onwards until August/September. Set plants 3 feet x 3 feet apart (90 cm x 90 cm) as they need a lot of space.

Cultivation

Plants should be kept weed-free. Water well in dry spells. When the plants reach 12" (30 cm ) tall, provide stakes, and keep plants well watered. Plants are ready to be blanched in last summer or early autumn.

To blanch, gather the leaves together at the top of each plant, tie with soft string, and then wrap the plant with brown paper and earth up the plant at its base, to keep out the light.

Pests

Cardoons are vulnerable to attack by slugs and snails. Black bean aphids may attack leaves and stem tips, and root aphids can also be a problem. We recommend treatment with our BioFriend Plant Defence.

Harvesting

About two months after blanching, either cut down the entire plant at the base, or remove individual stems as required.

Remove autumn dieback and protect the crowns from frost with straw or similar over the winter.