Celery is a popular vegetable that is known for its crunchy texture and refreshing taste. It is typically used in salads and as a garnish, but it can also be used in soups, stews, and other dishes. Celery is a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It is particularly high in vitamin K, which is important for maintaining healthy bones, and in vitamin C, which is an antioxidant that helps to boost the immune system.
Sowing
- Start celery seeds indoors 10-12 weeks before the last expected frost date in your area. Celery has a long growing season and is slow to germinate.
- Use a seed-starting tray or pots with a good quality seed-starting mix.
- Sow celery seeds very shallowly, just pressing them into the surface, as they require light to germinate.
- Maintain a temperature of around 70-75°F (21-24°C) for germination. Cover the tray with a plastic dome or plastic wrap to keep the humidity high.
- Once the seedlings have at least two true leaves, they can be transplanted outdoors.
Growing
- Choose a location with full sun or partial shade, and prepare the soil well with organic matter to ensure good moisture retention.
- Transplant the celery seedlings outdoors when they are 8-10 weeks old and the weather is suitable, typically a few weeks before the last frost date.
- Space the celery plants about 8-10 inches apart in rows. Ensure consistent moisture to prevent stress and encourage healthy growth.
- Fertilize the soil with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Harvesting
- Celery can be harvested once the stalks have reached the desired size. This can typically be done about 100-120 days after sowing the seeds.
- To harvest, cut the outer stalks at the base with a sharp knife or scissors. Leave the inner stalks and growing point intact for continued growth.
- Celery can be harvested gradually as needed, which allows you to enjoy it at its freshest.
Storing + Next Steps
- Freshly harvested celery can be stored in the refrigerator. Wrap it in plastic wrap or place it in a plastic bag and store it in the crisper drawer. It can be stored for several weeks under proper conditions.
- For long-term storage, you can blanch and freeze celery. Blanching involves briefly boiling the celery and then quickly cooling it in ice water before freezing. This method preserves the texture and flavor of the celery.
- If you have a root cellar or a cool, humid place, you can store celery there for several weeks. Ensure proper storage conditions to maintain its quality.
- Celery is a biennial and will produce again next season.
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