Growing artichokes?

Question

I planted an artichoke plant in early April and although it has grown quite a bit it is not producing anything (flowers, fruit, etc). I am becoming concerned as this is my one vegetable that is at a stalemate and doesn't seem to want to come out of it.

The leaves are thick and green, pointing straight upwards. There is about 6 total all the way around. The plant gets full sun and is watered once a day (I live in So. Cali and the heat is immense). It is in a bed with tomatoes and eggplant and all of these veggies are now producing a lot. I tested my soil over the weekend and the levels seem to be spot on.

How long do artichokes have to sit before producing? A woman at Home Depot over the weekend said hers didn't start producing for a full year.

If anyone has any tips on artichoke growing, I would be greatly obliged! Thank you!

Answer 1

They prefer cooler climates,like around Castroville.

If it hasn't bloomed yet (the buds are the edible part) ... it might start in the fall when things cool off. Or even winter.

Give them at least 2 years before you decideto give them away.