Imperial Star – Artichoke Seed

Description

Marie Ballard Aster Imperial Star – Artichoke Seed offers gardeners an exceptional variety of artichokes that is renowned for its high yield, tender flavor, and early harvest. Imperial Star is a unique artichoke variety that thrives in both cool and moderate climates, providing long-term harvests of large, globe-shaped buds. Ideal for gardeners looking to grow their own artichokes, this variety produces delicious, nutrient-rich hearts perfect for steaming, grilling, or adding to your favorite dishes.

1. Features:

• High-Yield Variety: Imperial Star produces abundant, large, globe-shaped artichokes with tender, flavorful hearts.
• Early Harvest: Known for its early production, Imperial Star artichokes typically yield a crop in the first year, making it an excellent choice for gardeners seeking a quick harvest.
• Cold Tolerant: A hardy variety that thrives in cooler climates, making it suitable for growing in various regions.
• Tender, Nutritious Hearts: Enjoy the unique, nutty flavor and nutrient-rich hearts that artichokes are famous for, packed with antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins.
• Perennial Crop: Once established, this variety is a perennial, providing ongoing harvests for multiple seasons.
• Compact Growth: Imperial Star artichokes have a relatively compact growing habit, making them suitable for small and large gardens alike.
• Disease Resistant: A robust and disease-resistant variety, offering growers a healthy, productive crop.
• Versatile in the Kitchen: Artichokes are perfect for a wide range of culinary applications, from steaming and grilling to adding to salads and pasta dishes.

1. Specifications:

• Type: Artichoke (Cynara scolymus), Imperial Star
• Seed Count: Approximately 50-70 seeds per packet
• Plant Height: 3–4 feet (90–120 cm)
• Fruit Size: Globe-shaped, 4–6 inches (10–15 cm) in diameter
• Sunlight Requirements: Full sun
• Soil Requirements: Well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 6.5–7.5
• Watering Needs: Moderate watering, ensuring the soil remains moist but not waterlogged
• Germination Time: 14–21 days
• Days to Maturity: 1–2 years for full production, with some buds produced in the first year
• Hardiness Zone: USDA Zones 6–9
• Planting Depth: Plant seeds 1 inch (2.5 cm) deep
• Spacing: Space plants 3–4 feet (90–120 cm) apart
• Harvesting: Harvest when buds are large and tight, typically in late spring to early summer
• Use: Ideal for steaming, grilling, or adding to salads, pastas, and other dishes

1. Why Choose Marie Ballard Aster Imperial Star Artichoke Seeds?

Marie Ballard Aster Imperial Star Artichoke Seeds are perfect for gardeners seeking an early, high-yielding, and easy-to-grow artichoke variety. This disease-resistant, cold-tolerant variety offers the perfect combination of fast growth, flavorful artichokes, and long-lasting harvests. Whether you're new to gardening or an experienced grower, Imperial Star is a rewarding and versatile addition to your garden.