Growing celery from store-bought celery seeds is definitely possible. However, it’s important to note that store-bought celery seeds may vary in quality and viability. Some seeds may be treated with chemicals or may have been stored for a long time, which can affect their ability to germinate successfully. That being said, with proper care and attention, you can still have success in growing celery from these seeds.
To start, it’s a good idea to soak the celery seeds in water for about 24 hours before sowing. This helps to soften the seed coat and improve germination rates. After soaking, you can mix the seeds with a small amount of sand to make them easier to handle. The sand also helps with even distribution when sowing.
When it comes to sowing the seeds, it’s best to start them indoors in containers or seed trays. Fill the containers with a high-quality potting soil that is well-draining. Make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged before sowing the seeds.
Using your finger or a small tool, create shallow rows or depressions in the soil. Sprinkle the seed-sand mixture along the rows, making sure to space the seeds evenly. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil, about 1/8 to 1/4 inch deep. Gently press the soil down to ensure good seed-to-soil contact.
After sowing, it’s important to keep the soil consistently moist. You can cover the containers with plastic wrap or place them in a propagator to create a humid environment. This helps to promote germination. Keep the containers in a warm location, ideally around 70-75°F (21-24°C).
Germination typically takes around 2-3 weeks, but it can vary depending on the seed quality and environmental conditions. Once the seedlings emerge, remove any covering and provide them with bright light. If you’re growing them indoors, place them near a sunny window or use grow lights to provide adequate light.
As the seedlings grow, it’s important to thin them out to allow for proper spacing. Celery plants require about 6-8 inches of space between each plant. You can transplant the excess seedlings into separate containers or directly into the garden if the weather and soil conditions are suitable.
When it comes to caring for celery plants, they prefer cool temperatures, moist soil, and plenty of sunlight. Keep the soil consistently moist but avoid overwatering, as this can lead to fungal diseases. Provide them with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day.
Celery plants are heavy feeders, so it’s important to provide them with regular fertilization. Use a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks, following the manufacturer’s instructions. It’s also a good idea to mulch around the plants to help conserve moisture and suppress weed growth.
Harvesting celery usually takes around 90-120 days from sowing. You can start harvesting individual stalks when they reach the desired size. Cut the stalks close to the base of the plant, being careful not to damage the neighboring stalks.
While growing celery from store-bought celery seeds may have some challenges, it is definitely possible with the right care and attention. Soak the seeds before sowing, mix them with sand for easier handling, and sow them in well-draining soil. Provide consistent moisture, bright light, and proper spacing, and you’ll be on your way to growing your own delicious celery.
