Cut artichoke buds while the bracts are still tight.
Cut the buds while the bracts are still tight
| Factor | Recommended | Avoid |
|---|---|---|
| When | Full size, with the bracts still closed | Do not wait until the bracts spread |
| How | Cut one to three inches of stem below the bud | Do not twist the bud off the stalk |
| Order | Take the top bud first, then the side buds | Do not leave the top bud so laterals stall |
Globe artichoke is grown for unopened flower buds. Cut when the bud is full size but the bracts are still closed. If the bracts spread, the bud turns woody and bitter. [1] A firm, heavy bud is ready. A light, loose bud has already started to open. artichoke takes that same tight-bud cut. Site and water stay on How to Grow Artichoke. Cardoon is a stalk crop on How to Grow Cardoon.
When should I harvest artichoke?
Cut when the bud is full size but the bracts are still tight. Take the top bud first, then the smaller side buds.
How do I know an artichoke is ready?
The bud should feel firm and heavy, with the bracts still closed. Once the scales start to open, it is past prime for eating.
Take the top bud first, then the side buds
The largest bud sits at the top of the stalk. Cut that one first. Smaller side buds will swell after it is gone. Check the plant every few days in warm weather, because a tight bud can open fast. Wear gloves if the plant is spiny, and handle the buds so you do not bruise the bracts. The short stem you leave on is a handle, and the tender part of that stem is edible. [2]
- Wait until the bud is full size but the bracts are still closed tight.
- Cut the stem one to three inches below the bud with a sharp knife or shears. [3]
- Take the top bud first. Smaller side buds will follow on the same plant.
- Check every few days in warm weather. Once the bracts spread, the bud is past prime for eating. [4]
- After the last bud on a stalk is cut, you can cut that spent stalk down so the plant puts energy into the next flush.
If a bud started to loosen in the heat, cut it that day — a tight bud opens fast.
FAQ
What if the bud opens into a flower?
The purple thistle flower is past prime for eating. Leave it for bees, or cut the stem. Next time, cut while the bracts are still tight.
How do I store cut artichokes?
Sprinkle the buds with water, bag them, and keep them in the refrigerator. Use them within one to two weeks.
Related guides
Recommended plants
References
- [1] Gardening Know How -
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/vegetables/artichoke/how-to-harvest-artichokes.htm - [2] Harvest to Table -
https://harvesttotable.com/harvest-store-artichokes/ - [3] University of Maine Cooperative Extension -
https://extension.umaine.edu/publications/2075e/ - [4] UC Statewide IPM Program -
https://ipm.ucanr.edu/home-and-landscape/cultural-tips-for-growing-artichoke/
This note is part of Cynara Guides.
More harvest timing notes by plant live in Harvesting Guides.
Updated: Reviewed by Bosquelle Editors