Celery: A Rewarding Challenge for Patient Gardeners

Celery has a reputation for being fussy, but with the right climate and care, you can grow large, tender plants. It requires about 125 days of a long, relatively cool growing season.

About This Plant

For a summer harvest, start plants indoors 10–12 weeks before the last spring frost. In mild fall climates, try a midsummer direct seeding. Some gardeners blanch celery for a milder raw flavor; self-blanching varieties save time.

Site Selection

Select a site with full sun and well-drained soil. Loosen soil to 12–15 inches and mix in a 2- to 4-inch layer of compost.

Planting Instructions

Presoak seeds to speed germination, whether starting indoors or direct-sowing. If starting indoors, sow in small pots or flats. Transplant to individual containers when 2 inches tall. Set out transplants 8–10 inches apart in rows 10 inches apart, a week or so before the last spring frost. In areas with a long season, direct-sow seeds ⅛ inch deep in rows 30–36 inches apart after soil reaches 60°F.

Care

Thin direct-seeded plants to 8–10 inches apart when 4–5 inches tall. Apply heavy mulch immediately after planting and provide consistent water. Celery is a heavy feeder—fertilize with compost tea or side-dress with rich compost several times during the season. Blanch varieties that require it when plants are 12 inches tall. Contact your extension office for pest controls (e.g., earwigs).

Harvesting

Begin harvesting outer stalks when they reach 6–8 inches tall. Harvest as needed in fall before the ground freezes. Celery tolerates light frosts.