Celery & Celeriac - Key Growing Information

A field of celeriac plants, ready for harvesting.

SCIENTIFIC NAME:

Apium graveolens

CULTURE:

Celery and celeriac require fertile soils with a pH range of 6.0-7.0. This crop needs a consistent supply of moisture throughout the season for optimum flavor and yield.

DAYS TO MATURITY:

From date of transplant.

PELLETED SEED:

If using pelleted seed: for best results, we recommend consistent soil moisture during the germination period. Pellets are made of inert NOP-compliant materials. Our celery and celeriac pellets are both size 8. Pelleted seed must be kept cool and dry prior to planting, and should be used within one year of purchase.

TRANSPLANTING:

Sow in trays 10–12 weeks before transplanting outdoors. Sow 6 seeds/inch, 1/8" deep, in 20-row open flats or plug trays. Seeds require light to germinate. Keep soil moist and temperatures 70–75°F (21-24°C) if possible. Seedlings emerge in 2–3 weeks and then temperature can be reduced to 60–70°F (16–21°C). When seedlings have 2 true leaves, transplant to 1 1/2" plug trays. Transplant outdoors when weather is warm and settled. Set plants 6–8" apart in rows 24–36" apart. Irrigate to keep soil moist.

BOLTING:

Caused by exposure of young plants to temperatures below 55°F (13°C) for 10 days or more. When hardening plants before transplanting out, reduce water for 7–10 days. Do not harden off celery plants by lowering temperatures.

CROP MAINTENANCE:

Celery stalks may be blanched if desired by hilling with soil or by placing paper collars around plants.

PESTS AND DISEASE:

For leaf blights, rotate crops. Ensure adequate soil calcium and water to prevent blackheart. For Celery Mosaic (mottled leaves, twisted stems, dwarfing), control aphids.

HARVEST:

Celery: Cut stalks when they are of edible size but before becoming pithy. Celeriac: Harvest late summer through fall at a 3–5" diameter.

POST HARVEST:

After harvest, remove field heat by dunking plants in cold water.

STORAGE:

Store heads/roots at 32°F (0°C) with 98–100% relative humidity. Celery will store for 1–2 months and celeriac 6–8 months. CAUTION: In rare instances, contact with the foliage can result in a severe rash. When working with this crop on hot, sunny days, we recommend wearing long sleeves and long pants and washing any exposed skin surfaces as soon as possible after contact.

SEEDS/OZ.:

See individual varieties.

PACKET:

250 seeds.

Celery & Celeriac