How to Grow Celery in Delaware

How to Grow Celery in Delaware

Celery (Apium graveolens) is a cool-season vegetable that requires careful attention to water, soil, and temperature to thrive. Delaware’s climate, with its mild springs and cooler autumns, provides a suitable environment for growing celery. However, proper planning and care are essential to ensure a successful harvest.

1. Choosing the Right Variety

Different varieties of celery can perform well in Delaware’s climate:

• ‘Tango’: A commonly grown variety, known for its tenderness and good flavor.
• ‘Utah’: A more traditional celery variety that produces tall, crunchy stalks.
• ‘Golden Self-Blanching’: A variety that has naturally pale stems and doesn’t require additional blanching methods.

2. When to Plant

Celery is sensitive to both extreme heat and cold. In Delaware, the best time to plant celery is in early spring, typically around mid-March to April, once the danger of frost has passed. Alternatively, celery can also be planted in late summer for a fall harvest.

Starting from Seeds:

• Start celery seeds indoors about 10-12 weeks before the last frost, which in Delaware usually occurs around mid-April.
• Transplant seedlings outdoors once the soil has warmed to about 50°F, typically in late April to early May.

3. Soil Preparation

Celery grows best in nutrient-rich, well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Delaware’s soil can be somewhat sandy or loamy, so it may need amendments for optimal celery growth.

Soil Tips:

• Work in plenty of organic matter, such as compost or aged manure, to improve soil fertility and water retention.
• Mulch around plants to help keep the soil consistently moist, which is crucial for celery’s growth.

4. Sunlight and Watering

Celery requires full sun, with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. However, in Delaware’s hotter summer months, partial shade during the afternoon can help protect the plants from excessive heat.

Watering Tips:

• Celery needs a lot of water to grow tender, crisp stalks. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
• Water deeply at least once a week or more frequently during dry periods, ensuring the soil stays evenly moist.

5. Mulching and Weed Control

Apply a thick layer of organic mulch, such as straw or compost, around the base of the plants to retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weed growth.

Weed regularly to prevent competition for nutrients, especially during the early growth stages when celery is still establishing itself.

6. Fertilizing

Celery is a heavy feeder, requiring nutrient-rich soil and regular feeding throughout its growth cycle.

Fertilizing Tips:

• Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer at planting time.
• Once the plants are established, side-dress them with compost or a high-nitrogen fertilizer every 3-4 weeks to support continued growth.

7. Pest and Disease Control

In Delaware, celery may encounter pests like aphids, slugs, and armyworms, as well as diseases such as early blight or root rot.

Pest and Disease Management:

• Use row covers to protect young plants from pests like aphids and armyworms.
• Ensure proper spacing and avoid overwatering to reduce the risk of fungal diseases such as root rot or blight.
• Neem oil or insecticidal soap can help control aphids and other insect pests.

8. Blanching

Some celery varieties need to be blanched to produce pale, tender stalks. This involves covering the stalks with soil or other materials to block sunlight, preventing the production of chlorophyll.

Blanching Tips:

• About 2-3 weeks before harvest, mound soil or mulch around the base of the celery plants or use cardboard or paper to wrap the stalks.

9. Harvesting

Celery is typically ready to harvest 85-120 days after planting, depending on the variety. In Delaware, this usually means a summer or fall harvest, depending on when you planted.

Harvesting Tips:

• Harvest celery when the stalks are about 8-10 inches tall and firm.
• Cut the entire plant just above the soil line, or harvest individual stalks as needed.

Conclusion

Growing celery in Delaware requires attention to soil quality, consistent moisture, and protection from heat and frost. By providing adequate water, nutrient-rich soil, and proper pest control, you can enjoy a bountiful celery harvest, whether for summer or fall use.