How to Pick a Ripe Artichoke
- 1). Inspect the plants daily once the flower bud begins to form. Artichoke buds form with tight bracts, which resemble leaves. If left too long in the garden, the bracts open and a purple flower emerges. Harvest the artichokes once the bud is approximately the size of a tennis ball, but before the bracts open.
- 2). Cut the artichoke buds off the stem with a sharp knife. Leave 2 to 3 inches of the stem attached to the artichoke.
- 3). Place the artichokes in a plastic bag. Store in the refrigerator for up to a week if you aren't using them immediately.
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