What To Know
- Celery is a versatile vegetable that can be used in a variety of dishes, from soups and salads to stir-fries and stews.
- When you’re ready to plant the celery bottom, dig a hole that is twice as wide as the celery’s root ball.
- Celery mosaic virus is a viral disease that causes the leaves of celery plants to become mottled and distorted.
Celery is a versatile vegetable that can be used in a variety of dishes, from soups and salads to stir-fries and stews. It’s also a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and folate. If you’re looking to grow your own celery, planting celery bottom is a great way to get started.
Choosing the Right Celery Bottom
The first step to planting celery bottom is choosing the right celery bottom. Look for celery that is firm and has a healthy root system. Avoid celery that is wilted or has brown or yellow leaves.
Preparing the Soil
Celery grows best in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Before planting, till the soil to a depth of 12 inches and add compost or other organic matter to improve drainage and fertility. The soil pH should be between 6.0 and 7.0.
Planting the Celery Bottom
When you’re ready to plant the celery bottom, dig a hole that is twice as wide as the celery’s root ball. Place the celery bottom in the hole and backfill with soil, tamping down gently to remove any air pockets. Water the celery thoroughly.
Spacing the Celery Plants
Celery plants should be spaced 6 to 8 inches apart. This will give them enough room to grow and develop. If you’re planting celery in a container, make sure the container is large enough to accommodate the celery’s growth.
Watering and Fertilizing Celery
Celery needs regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather. Water the celery deeply once or twice a week, or more often if the soil is dry. Fertilize the celery every few weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
Harvesting Celery
Celery is ready to harvest when the stalks are firm and have a good color. To harvest celery, cut the stalks at the base of the plant. You can also harvest celery leaves, which can be used in salads or soups.
Storing Celery
Celery can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. To store celery, wrap it in a damp paper towel and place it in a plastic bag. You can also store celery in a glass of water in the refrigerator.
Troubleshooting Celery Problems
Celery is susceptible to a number of pests and diseases. Some of the most common problems include:
- Aphids: Aphids are small, green insects that can infest celery plants. They feed on the sap of the plant, which can cause the leaves to turn yellow and wilt.
- Celery leaf spot: Celery leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes brown or yellow spots on the leaves of celery plants.
- Celery mosaic virus: Celery mosaic virus is a viral disease that causes the leaves of celery plants to become mottled and distorted.
If you’re having problems with pests or diseases on your celery plants, you can try using organic pesticides or fungicides. You can also try companion planting, which is planting other plants near the celery to help deter pests and diseases.
Conclusion: The Rewards of Growing Celery from Celery Bottom
Growing celery from celery bottom is a rewarding experience. With a little care and attention, you can grow your own delicious, healthy celery that you can enjoy all season long.
What You Need to Know
Q: What is the best time to plant celery bottom?
A: Celery bottom can be planted in the spring or fall. In warm climates, celery can also be planted in the winter.
Q: How long does it take for celery to grow from celery bottom?
A: Celery takes about 3-4 months to grow from celery bottom.
Q: What are the most common pests and diseases that affect celery plants?
A: The most common pests and diseases that affect celery plants include aphids, celery leaf spot, and celery mosaic virus.
Q: How can I prevent pests and diseases from affecting my celery plants?
A: You can prevent pests and diseases from affecting your celery plants by using organic pesticides or fungicides, or by companion planting.
Q: How can I tell when celery is ready to harvest?
A: Celery is ready to harvest when the stalks are firm and have a good color.
