What To Know
- Celery, a member of the Apiaceae family, is a highly nutritious vegetable prized for its crisp stalks and distinctive flavor.
- Place the seed tray in a warm spot with a temperature between 65-75°F (18-24°C).
- You can blanch celery by wrapping the stalks in cardboard or newspaper for a few weeks before harvest.
Celery, a member of the Apiaceae family, is a highly nutritious vegetable prized for its crisp stalks and distinctive flavor. Growing celery by seed is a rewarding endeavor that allows you to cultivate this versatile vegetable in your own garden. This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the essential steps and techniques to successfully grow celery from seed.
Choosing the Right Variety
The first step in growing celery from seed is selecting the right variety. There are several types of celery, each with unique characteristics:
- Pascal: A popular variety known for its tall, white stalks and mild flavor.
- Utah: A compact variety with shorter, thicker stalks and a slightly stronger flavor.
- Golden Self-Blanching: A unique variety with golden-yellow stalks that blanch naturally.
- Red Celery: A flavorful variety with deep red stalks.
Consider your growing conditions, taste preferences, and desired uses when choosing a variety.
Starting the Seeds
Celery seeds are tiny and require a specific environment to germinate. Here’s how to start the seeds:
1. Prepare the Soil: Fill a seed tray or small pots with a well-draining seed-starting mix.
2. Sow the Seeds: Sprinkle the seeds evenly over the soil surface and lightly press them in. Avoid overcrowding.
3. Cover the Seeds: Cover the seeds with a thin layer of vermiculite or fine soil.
4. Water: Water the soil gently to keep it moist but not soggy.
5. Provide Warmth: Place the seed tray in a warm spot with a temperature between 65-75°F (18-24°C).
6. Provide Light: Give the seedlings plenty of light using grow lights or a sunny windowsill.
Transplanting the Seedlings
Once the seedlings have developed their first set of true leaves, it’s time to transplant them into larger containers or the garden bed.
1. Harden Off Seedlings: Gradually expose the seedlings to outdoor conditions by placing them outside for short periods each day.
2. Prepare the Soil: Amend the soil with compost or manure to improve its fertility and drainage.
3. Dig Holes: Dig holes in the garden bed or containers that are deep enough to accommodate the roots of the seedlings.
4. Transplant: Carefully remove the seedlings from their pots and plant them in the holes.
5. Space Properly: Space the celery plants 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) apart.
6. Water: Water the transplanted seedlings thoroughly.
Growing and Caring for Celery
Celery requires consistent care to thrive. Here are some essential tips:
1. Watering: Water celery plants regularly, especially during hot, dry weather. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
2. Fertilizing: Fertilize celery plants every few weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
3. Mulching: Mulch around the celery plants to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
4. Blanching: Blanching celery helps to improve its flavor and appearance. You can blanch celery by wrapping the stalks in cardboard or newspaper for a few weeks before harvest.
5. Pest and Disease Control: Celery is susceptible to pests such as aphids and celery worms. Use organic pest control methods whenever possible.
Harvesting Celery
Celery is ready to harvest when the stalks are firm and crunchy. Here’s how to harvest celery:
1. Cut the Stalks: Use a sharp knife to cut the celery stalks at their base.
2. Remove the Leaves: Trim off any damaged or yellowed leaves.
3. Store: Store celery in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Tips for Success
- Start seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the last frost date.
- Provide consistent moisture throughout the growing season.
- Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Blanch celery by wrapping stalks in newspaper or cardboard.
- Harvest celery when stalks are firm and crunchy.
Final Note: Celery Success
Growing celery from seed is a rewarding experience that allows you to cultivate this versatile vegetable in your own garden. By following these steps and tips, you can enjoy the crisp, flavorful stalks of homegrown celery all season long.
What You Need to Learn
Q1: How long does it take to grow celery from seed?
A: From seed to harvest, celery takes approximately 120-140 days.
Q2: Can I grow celery in a container?
A: Yes, you can grow celery in a container provided it is large enough and has good drainage.
Q3: Why are my celery leaves turning yellow?
A: Yellowing celery leaves can indicate overwatering, nutrient deficiency, or pest problems.
