Gros Vert de Laon

Globe Artichoke

Zone 12b Save Garden

Botanical illustration of Gros Vert de Laon

🌱 90d to harvest Perennial_Crown

Unfurling from the garden with a regal, globe-shaped presence, Gros Vert de Laon delivers tender, succulent hearts wrapped in tig…

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Oct 9th
Last Frost	Jan 1st
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Dec 25th
Harvest Begins	Mar 25th
Harvest Ends	Dec 31st

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	90
Sun Requirements	Full Sun
Growth Habit	Perennial_Crown
Support Needed	None
Planting Depth	Normal
Germination Temp (°F)	70
Min Soil Temp (°F)	45
Min Night Temp (°F)	40
Harden Off (days)	7

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Frequently Asked Questions

What pests or diseases commonly affect Cynara scolymus (globe artichoke), and how can I control them?

Watch for aphids and caterpillars, which can stunt new growth and damage tender leaf tips; spray infested plants with a strong jet of water and use insecticidal soap for persistent spots. Gray mold (Botrytis) is a frequent issue in cool, damp weather—keep plants spaced for airflow, remove damaged leaves, and avoid wetting the crown when watering.

How often should I water Cynara scolymus during the main growing phase, and what soil moisture level is ideal?

During active growth (after plants establish and until harvest), keep soil evenly moist but never waterlogged—aim for consistently damp soil 2–3 inches down. Water about 1–2 times per week depending on heat and rainfall, increasing to more frequent deep watering during hot spells, and reduce watering only when tips begin to form and weather stays dry.

How do I tell when my Gros Vert de Laon (Cynara scolymus) is ready to harvest?

Harvest when the buds are fully sized and tight—before the purple thistle-like flowers open, and when the bracts squeak or feel firm rather than loose. Cut the stem 4–8 inches below the bud with a sharp knife; for best quality, harvest on a dry morning and continue collecting side shoots as they size after the first cut.

Unfurling from the garden with a regal, globe-shaped presence, Gros Vert de Laon delivers tender, succulent hearts wrapped in tightly layered, deep green bracts. Expect a refined, grassy-sweet flavor and a pleasantly meaty bite that shines in classic globe artichoke preparations—ideal for steaming and roasting, and equally compelling for dipping, sauces, and pickling. Grow this standout for its dependable 90-day rhythm and its showy, harvest-ready heads that invite repeat picking at peak freshness.

Sowing Tips

Transplant Conditions

Wait until soil reaches 45°F and nights stay above 40°F before moving outdoors. Harden off for 7 days first.

Expert Note

For globe artichokes, start early and transplant once nights are reliably mild, then give plants lots of space and steady moisture to set large buds.