Celeriac, also known as celery root, is a flavorful and versatile vegetable that adds a subtle mix of celery, parsley, and nuttiness to your dishes. Whether you’re enhancing soups, stews, or salads, celeriac is a nutritious addition packed with vitamins B6, C, K, and minerals like iron and phosphorus. Growing celeriac at home is a rewarding project that can be done in both containers and garden beds.
Growing Celeriac in Containers
Container:
- Use a pot that is at least 12 inches deep with good drainage to ensure healthy root development.
Seed Starting:
- Sow seeds indoors 10-12 weeks before the last frost.
- Keep the soil consistently moist and provide ample light to encourage strong seedling growth.
Transplanting:
- Once the seedlings are strong, harden them off by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions.
- Transplant the hardened seedlings into your containers.
Soil & Fertilization:
- Use rich, well-draining soil.
- Incorporate a slow-release fertilizer into the soil before planting to provide essential nutrients.
Care:
- Keep the soil consistently moist, but avoid overwatering.
- Feed the plants with a liquid fertilizer every four weeks to support healthy growth.
Harvest:
- Celeriac is ready to harvest in 14-16 weeks, when the roots are 3-5 inches in diameter.
- A light frost can enhance the flavor of celeriac.
Storage:
- Trim the foliage and store the celeriac in a cool, humid place for several months.
Growing Celeriac in Garden Beds
Site:
- Choose a location with full sun to partial shade.
- Ensure the soil is well-draining with a pH between 5.8 and 6.8.
Planting:
- Transplant seedlings 12-15 inches apart after the last frost.
- Space rows 18-24 inches apart to provide ample room for growth.
Watering & Mulching:
- Keep the soil consistently moist.
- Mulch around the plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Care:
- Feed the plants with an organic fertilizer.
- Keep the garden beds free of weeds to minimize competition for nutrients.
Harvest & Storage:
- Harvest the celeriac after 14-16 weeks.
- Store in a cool, humid place for several months.
Tips for Success
Companion Plants:
- Grow celeriac with tomatoes or spinach to deter pests naturally.
Succession Planting:
- Sow seeds every 2-3 weeks for a continuous harvest throughout the growing season.
Pest Management:
- Use row covers to protect the plants naturally from pests.
Growing celeriac is a rewarding project that adds flavor and nutrition to your meals. With patience and care, even beginners can enjoy a successful harvest.