CELERY - UTAH

     Organic Celery Utah

        150 Seeds Pack   

Celery was initially documented as a culinary plant in France in 1623. The Utah variety of celery can reach its peak height ranging from 18" to 24"(45.72 x 60.96 cm). Characterized by broad, parsley-like green leaves and thick, succulent, ribbed stalks that converge at a shared base above the root, Utah Celery exhibits an optimal form. In its prime state, celery offers a juicy and crunchy flesh with a mild, salty flavour. While celery is commonly utilized for its stalks, it's worth noting that its leaves are also edible, possessing a concentrated celery flavour.

PLANTING & GROWING

To successfully cultivate celery, begin by soaking seeds for at least a few hours, preferably overnight, before planting. To prevent damping off when starting seeds indoors, disinfect all pots, plastic grow trays, seed cells, and seedling tray covers before reusing them. Celery can be sown as early as February or March in trays or modules with added heat, or in a cold greenhouse in April. Do not cover the seeds, as they require light for germination. Germination typically takes 14–21 days at an ideal temperature of 21°C (70°F).

Once seedlings in seed trays develop true leaves, prick them out and grow them until they reach a robust size of 10–12 cm. For module-grown seedlings, pot them up as needed. Transplant seedlings to individual pots or flats when they are about 5 cm (2 in) tall, approximately two weeks after germination. If using flats, space plants at least 5 cm (2 in) apart in new potting soil. Before transplanting into the garden, harden off plants for a week to 10 days. Transplant outdoors in late May or June, once the temperature is consistently above 13°C (55°F), spacing plants 20 cm (8 in) apart in rows 30 cm (12 in) apart, or in a tight block pattern for natural blanching.

Water plants well an hour before transplanting, and trim outer leaves to help roots recover from transplant shock. Celery thrives in rich, moist soil in semi-shade and requires regular watering during dry spells. To prevent bolting, avoid exposing young plants to temperatures below 10°C (50°F). Harvesting can begin from June onwards, and the plants exhibit hardiness, withstanding light frost.

For optimal growth, follow a 2-year rotation away from other Apiaceae family plants, such as carrots, fennel, dill, parsley, and cilantro. Celery grows well alongside lettuce, spinach, and peas but should not be planted near cucumbers, squash, melons, or pumpkins.