Celery Seeds - Tall Utah 52-70 - Apium graveolens

3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11

USDA Zones 3-11 - Grows as a cool-season annual in all zones. Celery requires consistent cool temperatures and moisture to produce tender, non-bitter stalks. It is intolerant of extreme heat.

Best performance in Zones 3-9, where it can be grown in the spring and fall.

Northern zones (3-5) - Start seeds indoors 10-12 weeks before the last frost date for an early spring transplant. Plant outdoors after the last frost date has passed. For a fall crop, start seeds indoors in mid-summer.

Hot climate zones (9-11) - Best grown in late fall, winter, and early spring. Avoid planting during the summer as high temperatures will cause the plants to bolt or become bitter and stringy.

Soil temperature critical - Germination is best in a cool soil with temperatures between 55-70F. Consistent moisture is essential during this period.

Growing season needs - Requires 100-120 days to maturity from seed, making it a long-season crop.

Learn more about USDA Hardiness Zones here

When to Plant:
Celery is a long-season crop that is sensitive to temperature fluctuations. Start seeds indoors 10-12 weeks before the last expected spring frost. You can also start a fall crop in mid-summer to take advantage of the cooler temperatures.

Location and Soil:
Choose a location that receives full sun to partial shade. In warmer climates, some afternoon shade is beneficial to prevent bolting. Celery is a heavy feeder and requires rich, moist, well-draining soil with a high content of organic matter. A soil pH between 6.0 and 7.0 is ideal.

Starting Seeds Indoors:

Fill seed starting trays with a fine, sterile seed starting mix.

Celery seeds are very tiny. Sow them on the surface of the soil and lightly press them down. Do not cover, as the seeds require light to germinate.

Mist the soil gently with a spray bottle to keep it moist. Consistent moisture is crucial for germination.

Once seedlings emerge, thin to a spacing of 2-3 inches.

Harden off seedlings for a week before transplanting outdoors.

Transplanting Outdoors:

Transplant seedlings into the garden after all danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed slightly.

Space plants 6-10 inches apart in rows 2-3 feet apart.

Do not plant too deep; keep the crown of the plant at soil level.

Water thoroughly after transplanting.

Care and Maintenance:

Watering: Celery requires consistent and plentiful watering. Never let the soil dry out. Inconsistent watering can lead to stringy stalks.

Fertilizing: Amend the soil with plenty of compost before planting. A balanced, all-purpose fertilizer can be applied every few weeks to support vigorous growth.

Blanching: Some gardeners blanch their celery to achieve a lighter color and milder flavor. This can be done by wrapping the stalks with cardboard or paper to block out sunlight for about 10 days before harvesting.

Harvesting: Harvest individual outer stalks as needed, or harvest the entire plant once it is mature. To harvest the whole plant, cut it at the base with a sharp knife.