When to Plant Artichokes in Zone 8
In USDA zone 8a, start seeds indoors around August 4, transplant or plant outdoors October 6 to March 5, and expect your first harvest around March 5. Zone 8 also has a fall planting window opening around October 6. (8a shown here — see 8a and 8b dates separately below.)
Artichokes planting calendar for USDA Zone 8a
Average last spring frost
April 1
Average first fall frost
November 10
Start seeds indoors
Aug 4
Transplant outdoors
Oct 6
Projected first harvest
Mar 5
Artichokes needs about 120 to 150 days depending on the variety to mature — longer than zone 8atypically stays frost-free, so it likely won't reliably ripen there outdoors without a head start indoors or season extension.
Artichokes planting calendar for USDA Zone 8b
Average last spring frost
March 20
Average first fall frost
November 20
Start seeds indoors
Aug 14
Transplant outdoors
Oct 16
Projected first harvest
Mar 15
Artichokes needs about 120 to 150 days depending on the variety to mature — longer than zone 8btypically stays frost-free, so it likely won't reliably ripen there outdoors without a head start indoors or season extension.
Not sure whether you're in 8a or 8b? Set your ZIP in HomeSown for dates tuned to your exact location.
Varieties to grow
2 varieties of artichokes in the HomeSown library. Tap any for its full grow guide.
Common problems with artichokes
What to watch for, with identification and treatment for each
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