Problems and Solutions When Growing Artichokes

Some problems and solutions when growing your own artichokes at home. That’s coming up on This Land of Ours. 

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Artichoke seedlings are particularly susceptible to disease, and unless you’re taking proper care to sanitize tools and supplies, you may end up with limp, lifeless seedlings due to damping off.

• Slugs are a common issue for fragile young artichoke plants and are a problem in humid and moist areas. Use traps to get rid of slugs and avoid excess moisture and humidity by watering selectively.
• Artichoke is also susceptible to a host of leaf sucking insects including aphids. While a strong burst of water from a hose might dislodge the little suckers, it’s not ideal since the excess moisture may bring about fungal infections. Instead, pick off critters and drop them in soapy water.
• Cutworms also like to munch on growing artichokes. Till your soil and keep up on weeding during the growing season. Artichoke Plume Moth is a 1-inch brown moth feeds on all of the parts of growing artichokes. They are primarily a problem where artichokes are grown as perennials. Parasitic wasps and other beneficial insects can help control infestations.

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