How to Grow Green Globe Artichokes From Seed
Updated July 2026
Green Globe is the classic globe artichoke, prized for its large, rounded, thornless green buds on a dramatic three-to-four-foot silvery plant. It is the standard variety for eating the tender heart and the meaty bases of the leaves. Like all artichokes grown from seed, Green Globe needs a short cold spell called vernalization to form buds in its first year, then produces in roughly 85 to 100 days. This quick guide covers what makes Green Globe special; for the full growing method, see our complete artichoke guide.
Quick start
Best tip
At a glance
 Botanical name | Cynara cardunculus var. scolymus |
|---|---|
 Plant type | Tender perennial grown as an annual |
 USDA zones | 7 to 11 perennial; grown as an annual elsewhere |
 Sun | Full sun |
 Days to maturity | 85 to 100 days from transplant; buds first year if vernalized |
 Height | 3 to 4 feet |
 Spacing | 3 to 4 feet |
 Water | Water deeply and regularly; do not let it dry out |
Uses
Frequently asked questions
Why isn't my Green Globe artichoke forming buds the first year?
Green Globe needs vernalization, a short cold spell, to bud in year one. Give young seedlings about 10 days below 50F before planting them out, or grow the plant as a perennial and let a real winter trigger budding the following spring.
How long does Green Globe artichoke take to produce?
When first-year seedlings are properly vernalized, Green Globe produces its first buds in roughly 85 to 100 days from transplant. Grown as a perennial in mild-winter regions, it crops earlier each following spring.
How big does a Green Globe artichoke plant get?
Green Globe is a dramatic, spreading plant that reaches about 3 to 4 feet tall and roughly as wide, with silvery foliage. Give each plant about 3 to 4 feet of space so it has room to size up and produce well.
When do I harvest Green Globe artichokes?
Cut the large, rounded green buds while the scales are still tight and firm, before they start to open, leaving an inch or two of stem. Take the central bud first, then the smaller side buds as they mature over the following weeks.
Sale
Green Globe Artichoke Seeds – Non-GMO HeirloomHeirloom, non-GMOHeirloom Green Globe artichoke seeds, the classic large-budded variety for tender hearts and leaf bases.
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Want more than artichokes? These value sets fill out the rest of the garden while your Green Globe plants get established:
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Herb & Vegetable Seeds Variety Pack – Non-GMO Heirloom75 varieties, herb & veg75 herbs and vegetables for a full kitchen garden alongside your artichoke bed.
Price$63.99
Sale Price$59.99
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