I would like to encourage all fans of the magazine "Recipe for the Garden" to growartichokes . This vegetable comes from Mediterranean countries, but it also grows successfully in Poland. Most importantly - it does not differ much from the size and quality of specimens bred, e.g. in Italy.
Artichoke isa plant that is several years old , but in our climate it can only be annual. I prepare the seedlings myself. At the end of February, I sow the seeds in a pot filled with peat substrate with a pH of 6-6.5.
The container is covered with foil to provide the substrate with adequate humidity. When the seedlings have two leaves, I pick them up in pots like tomatoes.At the end of April, when the plants reach a height of 10 cm, I plant them on the plot. I provide them with a sunny place and fertile soil (in autumn I dig it with manure).
I plant the plants at a distance of at least 1 x 1 m. While growing, I feed them with nettle slurry or Azofoska, and when it is dry - I water them regularly. I cut the emerged buds with a sharp knife. The first time I pick 2-3 flowers,then 3-4 at three-day intervals. I start harvesting around mid-July and finish after the first frost.
Artichokes are prettydisease resistant . Only young plants can be attacked by aphids. When they do appear, I treat them with a natural garlic spray.
The pickedartichoke budsI prepare according to Italian recipes, while I dry the leaves, vegetables and use them as a herb for indigestion. I've also read that this plant contains a compound called cynarin, which lowers the levels of cholesterol and fatty acids in the blood.
Artichokes not only taste good, but also decorate flower beds. When I was on a trip in France, I saw them growing among yellow marigolds. I recommend this nice, he althy and tasty vegetable.
Krystyna Rajca
GARDEN RECIPE
Growing basics
- In the Polish climate, you can cultivate artichoke for many years. Then you have to remember to root the underground carp for the winter. A sheltered plant should survive several degrees of frost, but should be rejuvenated every 3-4 years.
- Artichoke does not like hot weather, too much sun and a long day. Under these conditions, the buds open too quickly. The optimal temperature for its growth is 19-25 ° C. Drought inhibits plant growth and branching, and inflorescence buds are smaller and of lower quality, so remember to water frequently.
