Celery & Celeriac (Apium graveolens & Apium rapaceum)

Green celery, Apium graveolens, is the most popular type of celery in the United States. It is an herb and vegetable member of the parsley family. Celery is a versatile ingredient for cooking, used both fresh and frozen. The stalk is commonly served raw or cooked in vegetable dishes.

Celeriac, Apium rapaceum, also known as celery root, is grown for its smooth celery flavor and long storage capacity. Celeriac has a fine-grained white flesh and tastes much like a stalk of celery. Celery seed for spices is derived from smallage, a wild type of celery from which modern celery and celeriac were derived. Celeriac is often cooked and added to mixed vegetable dishes. It is easier to grow than celery if conditions are cool and moist.

Temperature

If the temperatures are above 80^oF in the dark, celery likely will not germinate. A constant temperature of 75^oF should be maintained until the seedlings have emerged, then plant shallowly and allow a small amount of light to reach them. Upon seedling emergence keep a temperature in the range of 60°F to 80°F. A mean monthly temperature of 60-70°F is when celery grows best, this is due to the crop having exacting climate requirements. A temperature higher in the month prior to harvest reduces vegetative growth, while temperatures below the range induce bolting.

Soil

Well-draining, deep, fertile, mineral soils with a pH of 6.0–7.5 are ideal for celery. Muck soils are particularly suitable. Plow 8 to 10 inches deep and form a firm plant bed prior to planting. Celery requires frequent irrigation.

Planting

It is possible to replant for a second crop after early celery has been harvested.

Spacing

Rows should be spaced 24–36 inches apart with 6–8 inches between plants.

Harvest

When Celery is growing rapidly it is ready for harvest for in 6-8 days. Plants become pithy and marketability significantly decreases following the initial time frame. Celery is hand-harvested, cut, or pull stocks from the base. Store at 32-35°F and 98-100% relative humidity. Celery absorbs odors so be sure not to store them near other items.

Celery & Celeriac

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