Can You Grow Artichokes From Cuttings?

Question: Can you grow artichokes from cuttings? How do you take the cutting? -Tyler W.

Answer: In USDA zones seven through 11, artichokes are grown as tender perennials. Artichokes grown outside of those zones are grown from seed as annuals. In areas where artichokes can be grown as perennials, artichokes can be propagated easily by rooting artichoke cuttings.

Artichokes reach their peak production in their second year of growth and continue to produce well for up to five or six years. Mature plants will send up one or several offshoots that can be used to propagate the plant. Allow artichoke offshoots to reach a height of eight inches before removing it from the mature plant during the fall or during winter dormancy. Using a sharp knife or spade, separate the roots of the offshoot from those of the mature plant taking care not to hurt the roots of either plant. Use the spade to dig around the offshoot to loosen it from the soil. Then, carefully remove the offshoot and repack the soil around the original plant.

Plant your artichoke cutting in a sunny location with well-draining, fertile soil. Artichokes need lots of room to grow, so space plants six feet apart. Artichokes are ready to be harvested when the lowest bract on the bud starts to open. In warmer weather climates with longer seasons, you may be able to harvest two crops per year.