Globe artichoke- seeds or plants?

[Llamas]

Is it worth growing these beauties from seed? I'm all settled for the great asparagus wait so I can be paitent but I'd just thought I'd ask about germination rates, different varities available and overall, is it worth saving a few quid with seeds or should I take the plunge with plants?
Thanks!!

[goddess]

It depends on how many plants you want.when i had an allottment i bought 2 plants from GC due to lack of space but since moving house i have a big garden to fiil and chose the seeds option.I planted some 2 weeks ago in windowsill propagater and i'd say 80% germination so far.the varieties i sowed were gros vert ...and violetta.i also read in Sarah Raven's book that if you start early you can crop few first year although it's best not to in first year.seed raised will not all come true.

[sewer rat]

I grew Globe artichokes from seed last year and planted about 20 in a hotel garden - Of these, about half produced a harvest, albeit only one of two chokes each plant, though they were a decent size.

[Llamas]

Cheers guys!

[rogesse]

I've tried a few times to grow from seed - they germinate but got weedy then died. I gave up and bought two plants a couple of years ago and have been rewarded with more than I and the family can eat. No doubt they'll have to be divided soon enough giving me more!

Life's too short - buy two plants, it's a lot easier!

[Llamas]

Lol, of course I've just gone and bought seeds! Oh well, I'm not too worried, if I see the plants I'll get some of those too, but I'll be thrilled if I manage to get something out of both types (green globe and something purpley). Fingers crossed!

[Paulottie]

The thing about growing from seed is that the plants are of very variable quality. Thus you grow 1/2 a doz and then take cuttings from the most productive two years later ...fine if you've the patience and space.

I have had quite a few plants from seed die on setting out, or turn out to be pants over the years .. I shan't be bothering from seed again.

[sarraceniac]

I'm just hoping that mine have survived this lovely winter. I'm starting a few from seed as well because the existing ones are getting on (3 years) but I would like 1 more crop of edible flowers from them plus some root cuttings. 2nd best veg, after asparagus.

[russell]

Hi All

I plantyed some earlier in the year but now need to move them.

Any ideas what is the best time? I'm thinking Autumn but can be open to change this.

Thanks

[smallblueplanet]

Not sure, but if you lift them in autumn will they have time to establish before winter? Think they're normally split in early spring.