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Cardoon – A Surprising Vegetable with Great Ornamental Value (Cynara cardunculus)

The Cardoon is an impressive plant with bluish foliage that can grow up to 1.30 meters tall. It is a perennial plant that can be grown as an annual for the consumption of its thick, fleshy stems, which are usually blanched for the best taste. The cardoon is a versatile plant, not only a beautiful addition to the garden but also a delicious and nutritious vegetable for the kitchen.

Growing Tips for Cardoon

Sowing Sow the cardoon in a warm place (minimum 23-24°C) in April, preferably in small pots. You can also sow directly in the ground from mid-May. Cardoon thrives in soil rich in organic matter.

Ensure a warm, moist (regular watering), and well-lit environment for germination. When the young plants have 3-4 true leaves, transplant them to the soil, spacing them 1 to 1.5 meters apart.

Care Ensure the soil is well-drained and rich in organic matter. Add compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil fertility. Regular and consistent watering is essential for healthy growth. Applying mulch helps retain soil moisture.

Blanching Blanching of the stems occurs from late September. Remove any outer leaves in poor condition, tie the plant together, and cover the stems with straw or cardboard. After about three weeks, the stems can be harvested.

Harvest and Use To facilitate harvest, bend the leaves toward the stems and tie them with string a few weeks before harvesting. This helps to blanch the stems and makes them more tender. It’s best to harvest the stems as needed, as they stay fresher when left attached to the plant.

Winter Protection If you want to keep the cardoon as an ornamental plant, protect it from severe frost. In its second year, the cardoon can grow over 2 meters tall and produce spectacular flowers.

Diseases and Pests

Cardoon can be susceptible to diseases like powdery mildew. Ensure good air circulation around the plants and water them at the base to prevent fungal infections.

Benefits of Cardoon

Cardoon is an excellent source of vitamin B9 (folic acid) and fiber. It is also very low in calories, making it a healthy addition to your diet. Additionally, the plant offers a decorative element in the garden, with large flowers and an impressive appearance.

Tips & Tricks

• Do not grow cardoon in the same location for at least 3 to 4 years to avoid soil diseases.
• Cardoon can be stored for several months in a cool space or cellar. Remove the leaves above the neck before storing.

With cardoon, you’re not only adding an original and attractive plant to your garden but also a nutritious and versatile vegetable to your kitchen!