Tavor Artichoke: Sweet, Tender, and Highly Productive
Tavor is an improved Imperial Star artichoke variety that combines exceptional flavor with impressive productivity. This annual artichoke matures in just 90 days, producing 7-8 uniform buds per plant, each averaging 4.5″ in diameter. The green buds with purple tips offer a sweet, tender eating experience, making Tavor a standout choice for both home gardeners and market growers seeking a reliable, high-yielding artichoke.
Tavor artichokes excel in both culinary applications and garden aesthetics. Their sweet, tender hearts are perfect for steaming, grilling, or enjoying raw in salads. The plant’s silvery-green foliage adds ornamental value to gardens, while the nearly spineless leaves make harvesting a breeze. This variety’s ability to produce in a single season opens up artichoke cultivation to gardeners in cooler climates, expanding the range where these delicious vegetables can be grown.
Growing Tavor artichokes is straightforward, with plants reaching a mature height of 3-4 feet. Space plants 2-3 feet apart in rows, allowing ample room for their spread. Unlike traditional artichoke varieties that require vernalization, Tavor has been bred to produce without this cold period, simplifying cultivation. The plants have an open habit, facilitating easy maintenance and harvesting. For optimal yields, harvest the primary buds when they reach full size, encouraging the development of secondary buds.
Growing Success Tips:
- Plant in full sun and well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6.5 and 7.5
- Water consistently and fertilize regularly for robust growth and bud development
- Harvest buds before the scales begin to open for the best flavor and texture
- In cooler climates, start seeds indoors 8-12 weeks before the last frost date
Tavor artichokes offer an exceptional combination of flavor, productivity, and ease of cultivation. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or new to growing artichokes, this variety promises a rewarding harvest of delicious, tender buds that will elevate your culinary creations.
For extended harvests, consider staggered planting to ensure a continuous supply of fresh artichokes throughout the season.
Product Features
- Improved Imperial Star variety
- Matures in 90 days
- Produces 7-8 uniform buds per plant
- Buds average 4.5″ in diameter
- Plant spacing: 2-3 feet apart
- Mature height: 3-4 feet
- Prefers full sun exposure
- Requires fertile, well-drained soil
Key Benefits
- Sweet and tender eating quality
- Can be grown as an annual in one season
- Nearly spineless for easy harvesting
- Suitable for various culinary applications
