Basics

Ease of Growing
Difficult
Grown as
Biennial
Days to Maturity
85-115 (Spring/Summer), 85-115 (Fall/Winter)
Growing Habit
-
Hardiness
Hardy

Frost hardy.

Crops
Spring Transplant, Spring, Fall
Growing Season
Long
Cultivar Type
-
Growing Conditions
Cold, Cool

Start leaf celery in spring, when weather is settled, but still cool. In mild winter climates, seeds can also be started in the fall. Plant in full sun, or in hot areas, where plants will get afternoon shade. Sow seeds 1 to 2 inches apart in well worked, fertile soil. Water regularly and fertilize monthly with a high nitrogen source.

Outdoor Growing Temp
40°F - 80°F
Min Outdoor Soil Temp
50°F

Don't plant celery outside until the daytime temperature stays above 50 degrees.

Start Indoors
Yes
Start Outdoors
Yes
Light
Sun: min. 6 hours daily (Cool)

Celery doesn't like heat or intense sun and in hot climates will do better in light shade. It does need at least 6 hours of sun daily though.

Water
High

Consistent watering is the single most important factor in growing good celery, the soil should never be allowed to dry out. This may mean watering daily in dry weather, though every other day is more usual.

Water is particularly critical as harvest time approaches, because this is the time of fastest growth (plants may double in size in their last month). Lack of water at this time can result in bitter, pungent, stringy plants with hollow stems.

The best way to water celery is with a drip system or soaker hose.

Feeder
Heavy

Celery is a hungry plant that needs lots of nitrogen to produce its succulent growth. If the soil is poor, feed with compost tea or liquid kelp weekly.

Suitability
Tolerates light frost, Partial shade, Needs summer shade
Small Gardens?
Yes
Containers?
Yes

It is possible to grow celery in containers, so long as you give it plenty of water. Amsterdam Seasoning can even be grown indoors, if you want year-round celery flavor in cold climates. Choose a container that has a depth of at least 8". Make sure that your container has drainage holes. Fill with a mixture of potting soil and compost and water thoroughly. Firm your plants well, and fertilize with a mixture of fish and seaweed emulsion. Make sure to place your celery in an area where the temperature does not drop below 55 degrees F. Celery loves sunshine, so be sure to give it at least 6 hours a day. Water regularly (up to twice a day in warmer climates).

Attracts beneficial insects?
No
Color
Green
Fruit Size
- "
Plant Height
10.0 - 12.0"
Plant Diameter
6.0 - 8.0"
Hardiness Zone
3-11
Disease Resistance
-
Taste Profile

Bold celery flavor, good in soups and stews. Taste before using, flavor will intensify over time. Flavor increases when you dry it.

Rotation Group
Leaves: Brassicas + Leafy Greens