When should artichoke buds be harvested?
Written by
Liu Xiaohui
Reviewed by
Prof. Charles Hartman, Ph.D.When to harvest artichoke buds. Brace yourself for one of the most rewarding experiences known to man, harvesting artichokes at the right stage. Timing is crucial and varies depending on the type of plant being grown and the conditions. Still, it is easy to determine the right moment. Buds proliferate in warm weather. Check every 2 or so days. Harvesting at the right moment yields sweet, tender hearts with minimal wastage.
Visual Characteristics
- Tight, compact bracts without separation
- No purple coloring on bud tips
- Uniform green or violet color depending on variety
- Glossy surface without dullness or dryness
Physical Attributes
- Firm texture when gently squeezed
- Heavy feel relative to size
- No visible flower formation at center
- Stem thickness of at least 1 inch
Timing Considerations
- Early morning harvest preserves crispness
- Cool temperatures below 75°F (24°C)
- Avoid harvesting after rainfall or irrigation
- 7-10 days after bud first becomes visible
Use proper, clean cutting techniques - employ a sharp pair of bypass pruners and ensure they are sterilized with alcohol. Make cuts 2-4 inches down on the stems from the base of the bud, at a 45-degree angle, so that water will not collect at the cut. Be sure to wear a good pair of thick gloves during harvest to protect your hands from bracts and thorns.
Secondary buds. Unlike the primary harvests, which represent the terminal size of the buds, the visible growth that appears 7 to 10 days after each harvest develops for pickling or sautéing. Pick when 1 to 2 inches across, cutting the stems flush to the main stalk to encourage further production.
Important immediate post-harvest care. Artichokes should be refrigerated within an hour of picking, ideally. Once they are picked, store them in a refrigerator in perforated plastic bags at 32-34°F (0-1°C). High humidity will reduce the shedding of bracts. At the very least, they should not be bruised, or they will quickly deteriorate. Properly handled, they will keep refrigerated 7-10 days.
Read the full article: How to Grow Artichokes Successfully
