How to Grow Globe Artichoke in New Zealand
A handsome perennial for a sunny well-drained spot. Sow in late summer to autumn or plant offsets, and harvest the buds before they open. A dramatic architectural plant that crops well in Auckland in free-draining soil with good airflow.
When to plant globe artichoke in New Zealand
Timing is everything in New Zealand, where the warm north and the cooler south are weeks apart. Sow or plant in these months for your region:
| Region | When to sow or plant |
|---|---|
| Northland | January, February, March, April, August, September, October |
| Auckland | January, February, March, April, August, September, October |
| Waikato & BoP | January, February, March, April, August, September, October |
| Wellington | January, February, March, April, August, September, October |
| Nelson & Marlborough | January, February, March, April, August, September, October |
| Canterbury | January, February, March, April, August, September, October |
| Otago & Southland | January, February, March, April, August, September, October |
| Central Otago | January, February, March, April, August, September, October |
Best globe artichoke varieties for NZ
- Green Globe — Classic large green heads, reliable perennial, easy from seed. (Egmont Seeds, Kings Seeds)
- Imperial Star — Productive variety that crops in its first year from an early sowing. (Kings Seeds, Egmont Seeds)
- Purple de Romagna — Italian heirloom with tender violet-tinged heads and fine flavour. (Kings Seeds, Egmont Seeds)
How to grow globe artichoke
- Space plants about 100cm apart.
- Sow seed around 1cm deep.
- Position: full sun.
- Ready to harvest in roughly 180 days.
- Seeds germinate in about 14 days.
Companion planting
Grow globe artichoke near: Sunflower, Tarragon, Peas.
Pests and problems
Watch for: Aphids, Slugs, Snails. See our NZ pest and disease guide for organic control.
For a calendar tuned to your exact region, see the New Zealand planting guides or the Globe Artichoke plant page.
FAQ
When is the best time to plant globe artichoke in New Zealand?
In the warm north (Auckland, Northland) sow in January, February, March, April, August, September, October. Cooler regions plant a little later. Check the table above for your region.
Where can I buy globe artichoke seeds or plants in NZ?
Try Egmont Seeds, Kings Seeds.