Celery is an incredibly healthy and versatile vegetable that not only tastes great but is also easy to grow in your own backyard. This crunchy and crisp veggie is perfect for salads, soups, and snacks, and also makes a great addition to green juices. Learning how to grow celery is an incredibly easy, and in this blog post, we will cover everything you need to know. From soil type and light requirements to watering, fertilization, and harvesting.
Best Time to Plant Your Celery
The best time to plant celery is in the early spring, when the soil temperatures are around 50 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Celery can be grown from both seeds and plants, however, growing celery from seeds requires more time and patience. If you choose to grow celery from seeds, start them indoors 8-10 weeks before the last expected spring frost. Transplant the seedlings outside when they are about 2 inches tall. If you choose to grow celery from plants, simply purchase the small plants from a local nursery and plant them directly into the ground after the last frost, spacing them about 10-12 inches apart.
Best Soil Type for Growing Celery
Celery grows best in well-drained, rich soil that is high in organic matter. The soil pH should be between 6.0 and 7.0. I like this small soil meter that not only test your pH levels but also the soils moisture levels so you don’t overwater. It is best to amend the soil with compost or aged manure before planting. Celery is a heavy feeder, so it is important to nourish the soil with plenty of natural fertilizers such as bone meal, kelp meal, and fish emulsion throughout the growing season.
How Much Sunlight does your Celery need?
Celery grows best in full sun to partial shade. At least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day is ideal for celery to grow to its fullest potential. If you live in a hot or arid climate, it is best to provide some shade for the celery plants during the hottest part of the day.
Water Requirements for Celery
Celery requires consistent soil moisture to grow properly. It is best to water celery plants deeply twice a week, or more frequently during periods of high heat or drought. Make sure to water the plants at the base, as watering the leaves can cause them to rot.
Fertilizing your Celery
As mentioned before, celery is a heavy feeder, so it requires regular fertilization. It is best to use natural fertilizers such as compost, aged manure, bone meal, kelp meal, or fish emulsion throughout the growing season. Applying a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 or 5-10-10, before planting can also help to promote healthy growth.
When to Harvest and How to Store your Celery
Celery is ready to harvest when the stalks are at least 8-10 inches tall and have a diameter of at least 3/4 inch. To harvest, simply cut the stalks at the base with a sharp knife or scissors. It is best to harvest celery in the morning when the plants are still moist with dew. Once harvested, celery should be stored in the refrigerator in a plastic bag or container to keep it fresh.
How to Grow Celery in Grow Bags
Grow bags are an excellent choice for urban gardeners who lack outdoor garden space. They provide ample room for celery plants to develop, and they also help to regulate soil temperature and moisture levels. For celery, choose a grow bag that is at least 10 gallons in size to ensure there is enough space for the plants to grow. The planting process is similar to growing celery in the ground – simply fill the bag with a rich, well-drained soil, plant the celery plants or seeds, and water regularly. Remember that celery is a heavy feeder, so be sure to provide plenty of nutrients by using natural fertilizers or a balanced commercial fertilizer.
Different Types of Celery
There are several types of celery that you can choose from to grow in your garden. Each variety has unique features, making them suitable for different culinary uses and growing conditions.
Pascal Celery is the most common type grown. It features long, solid, and relatively thick stalks that are light green in color. This type is known for its crisp texture and strong flavor, making it perfect for salads, soups, and stews.
Golden Celery is a self-blanching variety that has vibrant, yellow-green stalks. This variety requires less sunlight and is known for its tender stalks and mild flavor.
Red Stalk Celery is a heritage variety with slightly thinner stalks that are a beautiful reddish color. Its taste is similar to Pascal celery, but it adds a unique color to dishes when used raw.
Leaf Celery, also known as cutting celery or Chinese celery, is characterized by thin stalks and a strong flavor. It is mainly grown for its aromatic leaves that are used in seasonings and soups.
Celeriac, or ‘knob celery,’ is a type of celery grown for its large, bulbous root rather than its stalks. The root has a subtle celery flavor with a hint of nuttiness. It can be eaten raw, roasted, or mashed, and it is often used in soups and stews.
Regardless of the type of celery you choose, all varieties thrive in cool weather and require consistent watering and feeding for the best growth. Each of these celery types can bring a unique flavor and texture to your kitchen, as well as add diversity to your garden.
Happy Gardening!
Growing celery is a fun and rewarding experience. With the right soil, light, and water conditions, as well as regular fertilization, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of delicious, healthy celery stalks. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced gardener, following these tips can help you grow celery successfully and enjoyably.
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