How long does it take celery to grow?
Written by
Michael Sullivan
Reviewed by
Prof. Martin Thorne, Ph.D.Knowing when celery is ready to pick will keep frustrated hands from pulling it out of the ground too soon. Celery is a slow-maturing vegetable. Celery plants are not all alike; some varieties are ready to harvest before others. Celery is also somewhat influenced by its environment; the warm sunshine of summer encourages it to grow more rapidly.
Germination Phase
- Seeds sprout in 14-21 days at 70°F (21°C)
- Maintain constant moisture in seed trays
- Use grow lights for 14-16 hours daily
Seedling Development
- Transplant when plants have 4 true leaves
- Harden off seedlings over 7-10 days
- Keep daytime temperatures around 60°F (15°C)
Temperature has profound effects on how fast something grows. For good growth, always keep the temperature between 60-75°F (15-24°C). Temperatures below 50°F (10°C) will significantly slow growth. Temperature above 85°F (29°C) will cause bolting. Use row covers to manage temperature fluctuations in unpredictable weather conditions.
Consistent moisture speeds development in celery. Supply 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) of water each week. For ideal watering, use drip irrigation to apply water uniformly. Mulch can help retain moisture, over-dry soil between waterings. Drought stress may add weeks or more to the maturity period.
Soil nutrition significantly affects growth rate. Apply balanced fertilizer every three weeks. Compost tea is an option for organic products. Nitrogen deficiency appears with leaf yellowing. Potassium deficiency is characterized by a weak stalk. Perform a soil test every month.
Patience gets you amazing celery. Start seeds indoors early, provide them with careful conditions, and harvest when the stalks are fully grown. That time spent waiting will reward you with great flavor and crispness to share.
Read the full article: How to Grow Celery: Expert Tips for Success
