Planting and Growing Guide for Celery (Apium sp.)
Description
Celery is a long-season vegetable that is best grown in the mild temperature parts of the year, generally in Spring or Autumn (Fall). Both the leaves and stalks can be edible and there is a wide variety of uses for fresh celery stalks. It has the reputation of being fussy and cantankerous. Celery can be difficult to grow for home gardeners as it requires frequent attention over a very long growing season. The long growing season (130 to 140 days of cool weather) mean that the plants have to be looked after over a long period of time. Hot weather or cold snaps can be devastating. Celery has shallow roots and a high demand for both water and nutrients. So water often and feed regularly. Celery grows best in cool conditions when planted in moist, well-drain and fertile soil. Prefers a slightly acid soil (ph 5.8-6.8). Celery is frost tender and cannot cope with hot temperatures.
Planting Guide
Seed Depth: Grow in seed trays or sow directly into the garden bed after the last frosts. Sow about 5 mm (1/4 inch) deep, and cover lightly. Keep soil moist. Celery may take 2-3 weeks to germinate, so be patient. Plant seedlings into the garden after about 6 weeks.
Space between plants: Space plants about 20-30 cm (9-12 inches) apart. Space rows at 30-50 cm (12-18 inches)
Harvest Time: Harvest in about 16-18 weeks. Leaves can be picked earlier.
Hints:
- Pick young stalks early to avoid the long wait for the mature product. Fresh stalks straight from the garden are a delight
- Celery requires full to half sun in areas protected from strong winds
- Celery does best in a rich, well-drained, moist soil, with a covering of mulch
- Regular watering is needed, to keep growth vigorous, which ensures the stalks are tender and firm
- Celery has shallow roots. Avoid working the soil and add mulch.
- Needs a soil rich in organic matter such as aged compost or manure
- Frost tender
- Harvest with a sharp knife as the roots are tightly bound
- Blanching improves the taste and texture. Wrap the plants in tubes of paper or black plastic.
Disclaimer: The PlantWhatWhen vegetable planting guide is only designed for use as a very general reference for home gardening purposes. It is not to be used for farming, markets or commercial activities of any kind whatsoever. We take absolutely no responsibility for the accuracy and adequacy of the information provided on this site. We recommend that you consider your local climate, weather patterns and conditions when deciding what and when to plant in your home garden. It's entirely your own decision. Happy Gardening and Best Wishes!