Celery is a vegetable that takes quite a long time to grow. On average, it takes about 130 to 140 days for celery to mature and be ready for harvest. This means that if you decide to grow celery, you’ll need to have patience and dedication to see it through to the end.
One thing to note is that celery is a cool-season crop, meaning it prefers cooler temperatures to grow. It can be a bit challenging to grow celery in areas with hot summers, as it can be more prone to bolting or going to seed prematurely. However, if you have a long growing season or can provide the right conditions, you can still successfully grow celery.
To start growing celery, you have a few options. Many gardeners choose to start celery seeds indoors, about 10 to 12 weeks before the last frost date in their area. This allows the young plants to establish and grow before being transplanted outdoors. Starting seeds indoors also gives you a head start, especially if your growing season is relatively short.
When starting celery seeds indoors, it’s important to provide them with the right conditions for germination. Celery seeds are tiny, so you’ll need to sow them shallowly, about 1/8 inch deep, in a well-draining seed-starting mix. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, and provide bottom heat or a seedling heat mat to help with germination. Once the seeds have sprouted, you can move them to a sunny location or under grow lights.
After about 8 to 10 weeks of growth indoors, your celery plants should be large enough to be transplanted outdoors. Choose a location in your garden that receives full sun or partial shade, and prepare the soil by adding compost or well-rotted manure to improve its fertility and drainage.
When transplanting the celery seedlings, be sure to space them at least 6 to 8 inches apart, as celery plants can get quite large. Water the transplants well after planting to help them settle into their new environment.
Once your celery plants are in the ground, it’s crucial to provide them with consistent moisture throughout their growing period. Celery has shallow roots and can be quite sensitive to drought, so regular watering is essential. Aim to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged, as excessive moisture can lead to rot or other diseases.
As the celery plants grow, you may also want to consider providing them with some support. Celery stalks can become top-heavy, especially when the plants are nearing maturity. Staking or tying the plants gently can help prevent them from toppling over.
During the growing season, it’s a good idea to keep an eye out for any pests or diseases that may affect your celery plants. Common pests include aphids, slugs, and snails, while diseases like celery leaf spot or powdery mildew can also be problematic. Regular inspection and prompt action can help minimize any damage or spread of these issues.
As the days start to shorten and the weather cools, your celery plants will gradually reach maturity. You’ll know that they’re ready for harvest when the stalks are thick and crisp. To harvest celery, simply cut the outer stalks at the base, leaving the inner ones to continue growing.
Growing celery can be a rewarding but time-consuming endeavor. It takes around 130 to 140 days for celery to fully mature, so patience and dedication are key. Starting seeds indoors and providing the right growing conditions, such as consistent moisture and support, can help ensure a successful celery harvest.