Vernalization of Seed and Plantlets and Development of Globe Artichoke

Abstract

Annual production of globe artichoke [Cynara cardunculus var. scolymus (L.) Fiori] requires vernalization of the plants, either through cold treatment of transplants or from natural temperature conditions in the spring. To evaluate cold treatment on productive traits in artichoke, two experiments were performed. In the first experiment, dry seeds, plantlets at the cotyledon stage, and plants with two expanded true leaves were subjected to 3°C for 10 days. In the second experiment, dry seeds, seeds soaked in water, and germinated seeds were subjected to 3°C for 10 days. Days to first harvest (FH), total yield (TY), number of buds (NB), and mean head weight (MW) were evaluated. Treatment did not affect FH, but treatment affected NB and TY in the first experiment. Plants developed from seedlings treated at the two-leaf stage had increased NB and TY. In the second experiment, vernalization decreased NB, bud weight, and TY below that of controls. Cold treatment of seedlings at the two expanded leaf stages may have the potential to enhance yield.

Keywords:

• Cynara cardunculus var. scolymus
• Argentina
• Precocious production
• Yield
• Vernalization