Roman artichoke (Cynara scolymus)

Romanesco Artichoke (Cynara scolymus ): this   This cultivar has unique characteristics and unique organoleptic properties compared to other varieties of the same vegetable. It is thornless and free of internal hairs. Its flower heads are spherical and compact with a characteristic hole at the apex. It is large, and the leaves, or "bracts," are green with purple veins.

The stalk is medium to long and thick; the central part of the plant, the mammola, can weigh up to 300 grams. It is grown in a single bundle per plant. Its flavor is strong and sweet. Since 2002, the Romanesco artichoke has been certified as PGI (Protected Geographical Indication). In the adjacent section, you will find more information on cultivation techniques.

Sowing (February to May) . Like most plants, artichokes can be sown. The ideal time to do so is between February and March in a protected seedbed. If you want to plant them directly in the field, however, they should be sown in the garden in April or May (depending on the climate zone). Those sowing in a seedbed should transplant the artichoke seedling in May. Water generously when transplanting and then continue watering regularly for the first few weeks.

Propagation from suckers (March/April or September/October). Artichoke suckers, also called "carducci," are one-year-old shoots taken from the base of the plant. The carducci can be used to grow new plants, propagating the crop. To do this, cut the suckers with their root portion, choosing those that have already developed, with at least 4-5 leaves, and are 25-40 cm long. This operation is done in spring (between March and April) or autumn (between September and October).

Pruning

The tasks to be performed are called pruning and defoliating the artichoke. In the year following transplanting, new shoots and stems begin to grow at the base of the clump. To avoid having too many small flowers, remove the excess shoots by cutting them with a knife. The shoots to be removed can be removed before they open (ovules) or after they have already formed a few leaves (carducci).

Ovules and carducci can be used to create new plants: propagating by transplanting the ovules requires less irrigation, but using carducci will result in faster growth. Digging can be done up to 4-5 cm below the soil surface. Removing the ovules (removing them) is done in the fall or winter, while the suckers are removed by digging, which should be done in the summer, when the artichoke plants are already dry.

Source: https://www.ortodacoltivare.it/verdure/carciofi.html