Celery

Planting celery

Start indoors 10 to 12 weeks before the last frost; the tiny seed takes weeks to sprout and the plants grow slowly. Transplant after hardening off.

Planting details

• Seed needs light; press into the surface
• Spacing: 8 to 10 inches
• Self-blanching types are much easier for beginners

Growing requirements

Celery is one of the thirstiest vegetables: it wants rich, moisture-retentive soil and water every week without fail. A single dry spell makes stalks tough and stringy.

Harvesting and care

Harvest outer stalks as needed or the whole plant at once. Mulch heavily to hold the constant moisture it demands, and blanch tender types by wrapping the stalks if you prefer milder flavor.

Common mistakes

• Starting seed too late, since celery needs 10 or more weeks indoors
• Letting the bed dry out even briefly, which toughens the stalks
• Planting in thin, fast-draining soil without organic matter

Companion plants

Celery fits near tomatoes, cabbage, and beans where it can share deep mulch and steady irrigation.