How to Prepare Artichokes for Winter
Even if you live in colder climates like New England, you can successfully learn how to prepare artichokes for winter, protecting next season's crop.
1. after the first significant fall frost, trim plant back to 12" tall.
2. add 4" of soil around the base of the plant, extending out 1 foot from the plant. (This adds insulation for the roots).
Note: As you can see from the picture above, I like to add a layer of compost first, then add the layer of soil on top (below).
3. cover the plant with a very thick layer (8") of organic mulch (like straw or leaves). We recommend filling a bin with the mulch (leaves, straw, etc.) and inverting over the plant, to provide extra insulation from winter's cold. (You may need to place a rock or similar weight on top of the bin to secure it.)
Note: In early spring, remove the bin and the mulch. Freshen the soil with a dose of compost lightly mixed on the surface soil (don't disturb the roots). Artichokes are heavy feeders, so the nutrient boost from compost or a similar fertilizer is important.
It's that simple for how to prepare artichokes for winter in colder climates.
Note: If your climate is too cold even for artichokes to winter over with this method, you can dig up the plants in the fall. Store them in containers filled with lightly moist sand or peat, in a cold cellar or similar location. Check periodically over the winter, to make sure the sand/peat hasn't dried out. In the spring, divide the plants, and plant in the garden.