(Cynara cardunculus)
Cardoon is a tender perennial, related to globe artichokes, typically grown as an annual for its young leaf stalks.
Sow seeds in trays and transplant outdoors after 4–6 weeks.
Plant seeds at a depth about three times their diameter.
Ideal soil temperature for germination: 13°C to 25°C.
Space plants 50–150 cm apart for optimal growth.
Cardoons are ready to harvest in 34–35 weeks.
For tender stalks, cardoon requires blanching before harvest. Use either of these methods:
Bunch and Wrap: Tie the leaves together in a bunch, then wrap paper or sacking around the stems.
Hilling: Form a mound of soil around the stem to keep it shaded.
After four to six weeks of blanching, the stems are ready. Cut them at ground level, removing the outer leaves for a clean harvest.
