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Celery

Apium graveolens var.dulce

INTRODUCTION

Celery is a biennial plant species in the parsley family (Apiaceae or Umbelliferae) grown as an annual.

Traditionally, celery was grown in trenches and earthed up to blanch the stems - but with modern-day breeding producing self-blanching types, this method is rarely used.

Not always the easiest crop to grow for the beginner, it is, however, well worth the effort. And, although not totally hardy, celery will harvest into early winter.

Soil Preparation

Celery is at its happiest when grown in an open sunny position. It requires rich fertile, moisture-retentive and stone-free soil.

Ensure plenty of well-rotted manure is incorporated into the soil the previous autumn.

This crop will tolerate some shade and is a good subject for the slightly damper parts of the plot you may have, as its wild relative traditionally grows on riverbanks.

Sowing & Planting

Celery is not the easiest seed to germinate and can be very erratic, so give it all the help you can.

Sow into modules under glass or in a propagator from March until late April.

Take extreme care when sowing, celery seed is minute and difficult to sow thinly. Do not sow in drafty conditions!

Do not cover celery seed, as light is required for germination.

Maintain a temperature of 15 - 20c.

When seedlings are large enough to handle, pot on into small pots or larger modules and gradually harden off.

During late spring/early summer, plant out at 30cm (12 inches) between the plants and rows. Plant firmly and water thoroughly.

Don't be tempted to plant out too early, especially if the weather is cold. Celery is prone to bolting in cold weather.

Plant in blocks rather than rows, this will assist with the blanching.

Do not plant too deeply, ensure the developing crown is not buried.

Growing & General Cultivation

Keep well-watered during hot weather, Celery will not tolerate drought conditions. Mulch the crop to help retain moisture.

Ensure the crop is kept weed-free and take care when hoeing not to damage the developing roots.

Celery will respond well to feeding. Feed at two-week intervals.

Celery plants growing on the outside of the growing area may benefit from wrapping loosely in cardboard 'collars' to ensure they remain blanched.

Pests & Diseases

Slugs and Snails can be a problem for young plants - for remedies - see the product directory.

Celery Leaf Miner can affect the growing crop in early summer and again during the autumn.

The symptoms will appear as blotchy mined leaves that are caused by the larvae. The foliage will become brown and papery and severe infestations can cause a serious check to plant development.

As there are no chemical remedies for the home gardener, remove damaged foliage by hand.

Celery Leaf Spot will show as brown spots on older leaves and can spread to younger foliage. Remove as necessary.