Thinking about growing artichokes in Central Texas? Don’t be intimidated—artichokes grow beautifully from seed right in your Hill Country garden or food forest. In this post, we’ll walk through how to direct sow artichoke seeds, build healthy soil using permaculture principles, and integrate artichokes into a thriving Central Texas food forest alongside companion herbs like yarrow, oregano, and comfrey. Whether you’re in Austin, San Marcos, Wimberley, or nearby, you can grow these stunning perennials with just a bit of planning and the right soil.

Learn how to grow and harvest Opo Squash (Cucuzza) in Austin’s drought-resistant Zone 8 edible landscape. This step-by-step guide covers everything from soil preparation and planting tips to watering, pest control, and harvesting techniques. Whether you're new to gardening or an experienced grower, Cucuzza is a perfect addition to your summer garden, offering delicious, versatile squash with minimal water needs.