I asked that question to CoPilot AI just now. There are and have been none yet at Costco this year, prices have been high elsewhere ($6 ea, highest I've ever seen) and I know that artichoke season begins in April so we should have been flooded with them by now.
Here's its explanation:
California Artichoke Shortage Explained
California’s artichoke shortage is the result of a perfect storm of climate, production, and market factors that have reduced supply while demand has grown.
Why it’s happening
Climate impacts: California’s artichokes thrive in mild coastal conditions, but recent weather patterns — including cool, foggy, and wet periods that promote mold and mildew — have hampered yields The Produce News.
Weather variability: Droughts, heatwaves, and frosts damage crops, while water restrictions limit irrigation greenfieldy.com.
Production challenges: Growers are shifting acreage to other crops due to higher costs and risk greenfieldy.com.
Seasonal timing: The current harvest window is short, and once picked, artichokes lose firmness and flavor quickly reports.uwncm.org.
Global and local demand: Artichoke popularity has surged over the past five years, driven by Mediterranean cuisine trends, plant-based diets, and chef demand gardenhypes.com.
It forgot to mention the shortage of pickers due to ICE actions.