What To Know
- Sow celery seeds in a seed tray filled with a seed-starting mix.
- Place the seed tray in a warm, sunny location and maintain a temperature of around 70°F (21°C).
- As the celery stalks grow, gradually draw soil or mulch up around the base of the plants.
Are you eager to grow your own crisp and flavorful celery in the comfort of your backyard? This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the essential knowledge and techniques to embark on this rewarding gardening adventure.
Choosing the Right Celery Variety
The first step in planting celery is selecting a suitable variety. Consider your local climate and desired growth duration:
- Early varieties: ‘Utah 52-70’, ‘Florida 683’ (mature in 70-80 days)
- Mid-season varieties: ‘Golden Self Blanching’, ‘Tango’ (mature in 80-100 days)
- Late varieties: ‘Giant Pascal’, ‘Monarch’ (mature in 100-120 days)
Preparing the Soil
Celery prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a pH range of 6.0-7.0. Ensure the soil is loose and free of any debris or rocks.
- Amend the soil with organic matter such as compost or manure to improve drainage and fertility.
- Dig a trench about 6 inches deep and 12 inches wide.
- Fill the trench with a mixture of soil, compost, and peat moss.
Planting Celery Seeds
- Sow celery seeds in a seed tray filled with a seed-starting mix.
- Cover the seeds lightly with soil and keep them moist.
- Place the seed tray in a warm, sunny location and maintain a temperature of around 70°F (21°C).
- Seedlings will emerge within 10-14 days.
Transplanting Celery Seedlings
- Once the seedlings have developed their first set of true leaves, they are ready to be transplanted into the prepared trench.
- Space the seedlings 6-8 inches apart.
- Bury the seedlings up to the first set of leaves.
- Water the seedlings thoroughly after transplanting.
Watering Celery
Celery is a water-intensive crop. Water regularly, especially during hot and dry weather.
- Water the plants deeply, allowing the soil to become thoroughly moist.
- Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
- Mulch around the plants to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Fertilizing Celery
Fertilize celery every 3-4 weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
- Use a fertilizer with a ratio of 10-10-10 (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium).
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application rates.
Blanching Celery
Blanching is the process of covering the celery stalks to prevent them from becoming green and bitter.
- As the celery stalks grow, gradually draw soil or mulch up around the base of the plants.
- Repeat the process until the stalks are completely covered.
Harvesting Celery
Celery is ready to harvest when the stalks are firm and crisp.
- Use a sharp knife to cut the stalks at the base.
- The outer stalks will mature first, so you can harvest them as needed.
- Store celery in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Tips for Growing Celery in Your Backyard
- Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date.
- Harden off seedlings gradually before transplanting them outdoors.
- Protect celery from pests such as aphids, thrips, and cutworms.
- Rotate celery crops every 3-4 years to prevent soil-borne diseases.
- Companion plant celery with onions, carrots, and tomatoes.
Troubleshooting Common Celery Problems
- Bolting: Celery will bolt (produce flowers) if it is exposed to high temperatures or stress.
- Browning stalks: This can be caused by a lack of water or fertilizer.
- Root rot: Overwatering or poor drainage can lead to root rot.
- Pests: Aphids, thrips, and cutworms can attack celery plants.
In a nutshell: Savor the Crispness of Homegrown Celery
Growing celery in your backyard is a rewarding experience that provides you with fresh, flavorful, and nutrient-rich vegetables. By following these comprehensive instructions, you can enjoy the satisfaction of cultivating your own celery and savoring its crispness.
Popular Questions
- When is the best time to plant celery in my backyard?
- Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date. Transplant seedlings outdoors after the last frost date.
- How often should I water celery plants?
- Water celery plants regularly, especially during hot and dry weather. Allow the soil to become thoroughly moist, but avoid overwatering.
- How do I blanch celery?
- Gradually draw soil or mulch up around the base of the celery plants as they grow. Repeat the process until the stalks are completely covered.
- How long does it take for celery to mature?
- Celery typically matures in 70-120 days, depending on the variety.
- Can I grow celery in containers?
- Yes, celery can be grown in containers. Choose a container that is at least 12 inches deep and wide.
