cross-posted from: https://lemmy.world/post/50109406
Bumblebees and honeybees alike go gaga for artichoke flowers. They really have to dig in there to get to the nectar, but given how many other wildflowers are currently blooming in my yard right now that don't require spelunking that the bees could be feeding from instead, the artichokes must be producing some really premium nectar to be worth the extra trouble!
Side view:
Do you harden off your seedlings? That can help with transplant shock. Also if you're not using a grow light indoors, they might be getting a rough start (sunny window is rarely sufficient). Like many perennials you may need to be patient and wait until the plant is established and successfully overwinters before you can get any artichoke heads off the plant. It's also possible you need to try a different variety.
I've tried hardening off with a day release in the garden but tbh I'm just going through the motions as I can't really see any difference! I don't have a cold frame but I tried a poly tunnel and things just end up bolting (presumably they're too warm for the amount of sun in spring).
I've been wondering about grow lights in any case, that's worth a try. Good point about the variety, I'd been using the same seeds and maybe they just weren't right.
Thanks for the suggestions.
I hope you have better luck in the future! I think all gardeners have at least one plant that's just "cursed." For me, it's spinach. No idea why, but I have never been able to grow a spinach plant to the point of harvest, even though it's supposed to be a relatively easy crop and I live in a perfect climate for it.