I think they are hit or miss here. I tried them one year and failed, too - roots rotted. Probably too wet. Perhaps planting later when it dries out for the summer would be better.

There is also a cultivar - Imperial Star? - that produces in one year instead of two.

I grew up in the artichoke capital of the world, (cool foggy coastal Santa Maria, Cal.) so I have tried many times here in No. Al and failed. I don't believe they are winter hardy here and it is probably too hot as well. I can't keep them alive in a greenhouse either, yet I sill try. One year I had beautiful cardoons, a hardier cousin, but one very
cold night got them. Only 3 seeds germinated this year...but when we succeed it will be all the sweeter! Good luck.