Growing celery from seed can be a rewarding but time-consuming process. It typically takes celery plants between 130 to 140 days to mature from seed to harvest. This means that if you want to enjoy fresh celery from your garden, you will need to plan ahead and be patient.
One strategy that some gardeners employ to extend their growing season and have a second crop of celery in the fall is to start seeds indoors in May or June. By starting the seeds indoors, gardeners can give the plants a head start and ensure that they have enough time to mature before the first frost.
Once the seedlings have grown to a suitable size, usually around 4-6 weeks old, they can be transplanted into the garden. This is typically done in June or July, depending on your specific climate and growing conditions. It is important to choose a location in the garden that receives full sun or partial shade, as celery prefers cooler temperatures and can be sensitive to heat.
One crucial aspect of growing celery in the summer months is providing shade for the seedlings during the hottest part of the day. This is because celery plants can be prone to bolting, which means they prematurely produce flowers and set seed. Bolting is often triggered by high temperatures, so shading the seedlings can help to mitigate this risk.
There are several methods to provide shade for celery seedlings. One option is to use shade cloth, which can be easily draped over a frame or placed directly over the plants. Another option is to create temporary shade by using umbrellas, pieces of cloth, or even strategically placed tall plants or structures to block out the intense midday sun.
In addition to shading, it is important to provide consistent moisture to celery plants, as they have relatively high water requirements. Regular watering, particularly during hot and dry periods, will help to prevent the plants from becoming stressed and may reduce the risk of bolting.
It is also worth noting that celery is a heavy feeder and requires fertile soil to grow well. Before transplanting the seedlings, it is beneficial to amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure to provide the plants with the necessary nutrients. Regular applications of a balanced fertilizer throughout the growing season can also help to promote healthy growth.
In my own experience as a gardener, I have found that growing celery from seed can be a challenging but rewarding endeavor. The long growing season and need for careful attention to temperature and moisture make it a bit more time-consuming than some other crops. However, the satisfaction of harvesting fresh, homegrown celery makes it all worth it.
Growing celery from seed requires patience, planning, and careful attention to the plants’ needs. By starting the seeds indoors, providing shade during the hottest part of the day, and ensuring consistent moisture and fertility, gardeners can increase their chances of success and enjoy a bountiful harvest of delicious celery.
