Celeriac, which are known botanically as Apium graveolens var. rapaceum, are a type of vegetable that can easily be grown at home. Continue reading to learn the basics of growing celeriac as well as common mistakes to avoid along the way.
Best Time to Plant Celeriac
This will depend largely on your local climate, but as a rule of thumb, begin to plant the celeriac seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before last frost, transplant outdoors after danger of frost has passed. This is the best time to ensure that the seedlings survive the weather.
To check when celeriac are most likely to thrive in your area, see the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map. If you live outside the US, do a quick search for ‘plant hardiness zone + [city]’.
How to Plant Celeriac the Right Way
There are a number of things to consider that will help you avoid some of the common mistakes of growing celeriac in your home garden.
Often overlooked, your soil can have a huge impact on how well your celeriac grow. Generally, your soil should be well-drained and fertile. Soil PH levels should be around 5.8 to 6.8.
plant tubers 12-18″ apart in rows 36″ apart. 1/4″ deep, 2″ apart in rows 18″ apart. The seeds should be sowed at a depth of about 8-12″. For each plant, be sure to sow at least a few seeds to ensure that at least one of them will germinate.
Begin thinning your celeriac seedlings 8-12″ apart when seedlings are 2-3″ tall.
How Much Sunlight is Needed to Grow Celeriac
The amount of sunlight is another key to a successful harvest. Too much sunlight will dry out your celeriac. Not enough sunlight will stunt your its growth or even kill it.
Ideally, your celeriac should be getting full sun to partial shade
How Much to Water Celeriac
As you’ve figured by now, a lot can have an impact on how well your celeriac do, and the amount of water is no different.
Ideally, the soil should be damp to touch; not soggy or bone dry. If the leaves on your celeriac begin to change colors or start to look droopy, you need to adjust how much water you’re giving it.
Unfortunately, if you give it too much or too little water, you can kill it, so it’s best to just keep an eye on it and water as needed.
How Long Does it Take Celeriac to Germinate and Grow?
Now the fun part begins and you get to watch your celeriac grow.
It takes approximately 14-21 days to germinate, and a total of 100-120 days from seed to harvest.
When to Harvest Celeriac
The best time to harvest your celeriac is in late fall, when the roots are 3-4″ in diameter.
Celeriac can grow up to about 12-24″ tall.
What Can Celeriac Be Used For?
Food Use: great for soups, stews, and mashed or roasted vegetable dishes.
Flavor Profile: mild and earthy with a slight celery taste.
Can Celeriac Grow in Pots and Containers?
Yes, you can plant 1 plant per 12″ container. This can help control weeds and keep your plant from growing out of control.
It also gives you the flexibility to move your celeriac around if you need to adjust sunlight or bring it indoors to avoid harsh weather conditions.
Are Celeriac Safe for Bees?
Yes, celeriac are safe for bees.
According to GreenPeace.org, bees pollinate human food crops that make up about 90% of the world’s nutrition.
Given their importance in our ecosystem and food supply, I feel it is important to note that growing celeriac is bee-friendly.
