Characteristics of heads of seed-grown globe artichoke [Cynara cardunculus L. var. scolymus (L.) Fiori] as affected by harvest period, sowing date and gibberellic acid

Shifting harvest period from spring to autumn-winter-spring of seed-grown globe artichoke varieties, by a correct combination between sowing date and gibberellic acid-(GA3) applications, may bave effects on the suitability of heads (capitules) for the market. A two-year-study was carried out in Sicily (Southern Italy) to check the effects of harvest period (from November to Aprii), sowing date (from 1 July to 20 August) and GA3 (0, 1,2 or 3) applications per plant on characterisdcs of heads of "Orlando", a new F, seed-grown hybrid of globe artichoke [Cynara cardunculus L. var. scolymus (L.) Fiori]. Anticipating the harvest time from Aprii to November, early sowing or 2 or 3 consecudve GA3 applicadons, generally decreased the head weight, increased the head length/width rado, and the stalk length. These effects did not affect the market suitability of "Orlando" heads. They were less evident on heads of "Violetto di Sicilia", a tradidonal vegetatively propagated variety that usually produces heads from November to April.