History
Artichoke cultivation dates back to Bourbon times, with the statistical office recording its presence in Capaccio and Evoli in 1811. Despite the extensive land reclamation and agricultural transformation brought about by the agrarian reform of 1929-30, it was not until 1929-30 that the artichoke cultivation spread, thanks to the efforts of several Neapolitan farmers who established the first specialized artichoke cultivations near the famous Paestum Temples.
Italian cuisine grew increasingly popular with artichokes during the Middle Ages and the Renaissance due to their unique texture and delicate flavor. Artichokes were cultivated in Paestum, and vegetables became an important part of local cuisine.
Facts About Artichokes Paestum
Fiera Del Carciofo, the artichoke festival in Paestum, has been celebrated for over 50 years and attracts thousands of visitors every year. Among the events are a market selling fresh artichokes, cooking demonstrations, and artisanal products made from artichokes.
Health Benefits
The fiber, micronutrients, and antioxidant content of artichokes may promote health and prevent certain diseases. For instance, it supports heart health, lower cholesterol levels, improves liver health, fights the effects of aging, and promotes bone health. It has been used since ancient times for its health benefits: depurative, diuretic, and anti-inflammatory, it contains some substances that help protect artery and vein walls.
It is fat-free and rich in calcium, vitamin C, iron, beta-carotene, and folic acid.
When to Plant Artichokes Paestum
The climate in Paestum is typical Mediterranean, with hot and dry summers and mild winters. In this region, artichokes are typically planted in the spring after the last frost has passed and the soil has warmed. In Paestum, artichokes are best planted between March and April. Before planting, make sure the soil temperature has reached at least 15°C (60°F).
Harvesting
Artichokes are typically harvested in Paestum in late spring or early summer, between May and June. It is ideal to harvest artichokes when their buds are 7.62 to 12.7 cm (3-5 inches) in diameter. When the buds begin to open, the artichoke will lose its tenderness and flavor, so it is important to harvest the buds before they open.
Companion Plants for Artichokes Paestum
The companion plants that can be beneficial for artichokes Paestum are thyme, chives, nasturtium, peas, and garlic.
Summary
Artichoke cultivation dates back to Bourbon times, with the first specialized cultivations near the famous Paestum Temples in 1929-30. Italian cuisine grew increasingly popular with artichokes during the Middle Ages and Renaissance due to their unique texture and delicate flavor. Fiera Del Carciofo, the artichoke festival in Paestum, has been celebrated for over 50 years and attracts thousands of visitors. Health benefits include heart health, lower cholesterol levels, improved liver health, fights the effects of aging, and promotes bone health. Artichokes are best planted between March and April and harvested in late spring or early summer. Companion plants for artichokes Paestum include thyme, chives, nasturtium, peas, and garlic.
