How to Grow Celeriac
March 17, 2023
Celeriac, also known as celery root, is a delicious root vegetable with a flavor likened to celery and parsley. It can be sliced and roasted, mashed, or pureed for a creamy soup. Celeriac also contains anti-inflammatory properties and essential vitamins that have been linked to a healthier heart and digestive system.
Celeriac is a wonderfully versatile vegetable that makes a fascinating addition to any vegetable patch. With a flavour similar to celery and parsley, this relatively easy-to-grow, cold-hardy member of the parsley family is a true delight. Read on to learn more about how to grow celeriac in your garden.
Choosing & Preparing Your Site
Celeriac prefers full sun and a slightly moist, well-draining soil. Before planting, take some time to prepare the planting bed by thoroughly tilling the soil and adding an ample amount of compost or well-rotted manure. Add lime to the soil, if needed, to increase the soil pH and make it easier for the celeriac toes to find the food they need.
Planting
When planting celeriac, space the toes about 8 inches apart, in rows that are at least one foot apart. Firm the soil around each toe when planting and water well. If planting from seed, you can plant the seed directly in the garden a few weeks before the last expected frost date. Plant in rows at least 12 inches apart, about 8-10 inches apart in the row. Thin seedlings to the same spaced as if transplanting when they reach 6 inches tall.
Maintenance and Care
Weeds can compete with celeriac for water, nutrients, and sunlight. Mulch around the base of plants to suppress weed growth. Water the plant when the soil gets dry. A slowly applied deep soaking every couple of weeks is best. Fertilize plants after they begin to sprout with a fertilizer that is high in potassium and phosphorus.
Harvest & Storage
Your celeriac is ready to harvest when it’s about the size of a grapefruit, usually around 5-7 months after planting. Lift the celeriac out of the ground with a fork or spade. Trim off the leaves, leaving 2-3 inches of stem. Store the celeriac in bags in a refrigerator or cellar for several months.
Conclusion
Growing your own celeriac is a rewarding experience you can enjoy for many years to come. From the first planting to your first harvest, you’ll get to enjoy the delicious flavor and culinary benefits this nutritious vegetable has to offer. For those who want to grow something truly unique and delicious, give celeriac a try.
