What's the best method for starting artichoke seeds?
Written by
Liu Xiaohui
Reviewed by
Prof. Charles Hartman, Ph.D.Although starting artichoke seeds successfully is a challenge, the germination process can be accomplished. Artichoke seeds tend to germinate poorly without stratification and require a cold treatment to achieve healthy seedlings; they should be chilled for two weeks at 32°F before starting. Ideally, germination should occur at 70-85°F; this can be achieved by using heat mats or overwintering plants indoors.
Seed Preparation
- Soak seeds 12-24 hours in room-temperature water
- Use scarification: gently nick seed coats with file
- Pre-chill seeds at 40°F (4°C) for 3 days
- Discard floating seeds after soaking
Germination Environment
- Maintain 75-80°F (24-27°C) soil temperature
- Use thermostat-controlled heat mats consistently
- Cover trays with humidity domes until sprouting
- Bottom water to prevent surface disturbance
Light Management
- Provide 14-16 hours daily light exposure
- Position LED grow lights 6 inches above soil
- Use reflectors to maximize light distribution
- Rotate trays daily for even development
Seed not sprouting? Germination failures. Seeds generally won't sprout. Slow sprouting? Probably too cool. Raise heat mat settings. Fungi? Better airflow, less watering. Seeds rotting? Use sterile seed starting mix. Old seeds? Use fresh ones that are under two years old.
Time your seeding precisely. Start your seeds indoors 8 to 10 weeks before your last frost date. I start mine at the beginning of March for transplanting in May. This schedule takes into account the requisite 10-day vernalization period you need to adhere to before moving seedlings outside. Adjust your timeframe accordingly based on your own climate zone.
Strong seedlings: Hardening off prepares plants for transplant shock. Over 7 to 10 days, acclimate them by gradually increasing sun exposure, watering less, and shielding them from wind damage. Ready seedlings have thick stems and 4 to 6 pairs of true leaves before transplanting.
Read the full article: How to Grow Artichokes Successfully
