Sow under cover with warmth provided from late winter to early spring 2-3cm deep 2 seeds per pot. Thin to the strongest seedling.  Plant out after all danger of frost has passed, 1m apart,  when plants reach 15cm.
Can be sown directly outside into soil April to June (when the air temperature is above 15��C) sow 3-5cm deep. (best started in pots)
Harvest April to July in the second season.
When harvesting the artichoke if there are no secondary heads left, snap the stem off at the base; if there are secondary heads on the stem, cut off the terminal bud together with a short length of stem as this will stimulate secondary shoots which may yield a second crop.
In late autumn cut the plants back just above ground level and mulch to protect the crown over winter.