AGRILABH CELERY SEEDS

Celery (Apium graveolens) is a marshland plant in the family Apiaceae that has been cultivated as a vegetable since antiquity. Celery has a long fibrous stalk tapering into leaves. …

1. Starting Seeds Indoors:

• Celery has a long growing season and is often started indoors to give it a head start. You can sow celery seeds indoors 10-12 weeks before the last expected frost date in your area.
• Fill seed trays or small pots with seed starting mix. Moisten the mix before sowing seeds.
• Plant the celery seeds 1/8 inch deep, covering them lightly with soil.
• Maintain a warm and consistent temperature, around 70°F (21°C), for germination. You can use a heat mat to achieve this.
• Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.

2. Transplanting Seedlings:

• After the seedlings have grown to about 2 inches in height and have at least two true leaves, they are ready for transplanting. This usually takes 8-10 weeks.
• Harden off the seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions for about a week before transplanting. Start with a few hours of shade and gradually increase the exposure.
• Plant the seedlings in your garden or containers after the last frost date in your area. Space them 10-12 inches apart in rows, with rows 18-24 inches apart.
• Celery prefers a sunny location but can tolerate partial shade.

3. Soil Preparation:

• Prepare the garden soil by amending it with well-rotted compost or organic matter to improve fertility and moisture retention.
• Celery prefers soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH, around 6.0 to 7.0.

4. Watering:

• Celery requires consistent moisture to prevent it from becoming bitter and stringy. Water regularly, aiming for about 1-2 inches of water per week.
• Consider using a soaker hose or drip irrigation to keep the soil consistently moist.

5. Fertilization:

• Celery is a heavy feeder. Provide a balanced, slow-release fertilizer at planting and then side-dress with additional fertilizer as the plants grow.
• Avoid excessive nitrogen as it can encourage lush foliage at the expense of the celery’s stalks.

6. Hilling and Blanching:

• As celery grows, mound soil around the base of the plants to blanch the stalks. Blanching means excluding light from the stalks to make them tender and less bitter.
• You can use cardboard collars or wrap the stalks in newspaper to achieve this.

7. Pest and Disease Management:

• Celery can be susceptible to pests like aphids, slugs, and celery leaf miners. Monitor your plants and use appropriate organic pest control methods if necessary.
• Watch for diseases like celery leaf spot and early blight and take preventive measures like proper spacing and good garden hygiene.

8. Harvesting:

• Celery is typically ready for harvest 90-120 days after transplanting. Harvest individual stalks or the entire plant as needed.
• Use a sharp knife or shears to cut the stalks at the base when they have reached the desired size and are crisp and tender.

FAQ

What are the health benefits of celery seeds?
Celery seeds are rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties, potentially aiding in digestion and reducing inflammation.

How do you plant celery seeds?
Start celery seeds indoors 10 to 12 weeks before the last frost, and transplant them into well-drained soil in a sunny location.

When is the best time to plant celery seeds?
Plant celery seeds indoors in late winter for spring planting, or in mid- to late summer for a fall harvest.

How long does it take for celery seeds to germinate?
Celery seeds can take 14 to 21 days to germinate when kept moist at temperatures around 70°F (21°C).

What pests commonly affect celery plants?
Common pests affecting celery plants include aphids, celery leaf tiers, and spider mites.