Merlin

TO PLANT DIRECTLY OUTDOORS

Start celery in spring, when temperatures are above 50°F (10°C) day and night. Plant in full sun or, in hot summer areas, where there is afternoon shade. Celery is a heavy feeder; amend soil well with a high nitrogen fertilizer before planting. Sow seeds thinly, about 1-2 inches apart and cover very lightly. Be patient and keep seedbed evenly moist while awaiting germination which is slow and uneven. When seedlings are 3 inches tall, thin to 8 inches apart to grow to maturity.

TO START EARLY INDOORS

Start in early spring, 8-10 weeks before night temperatures are evenly above 50°F (10°C). Sow seeds thinly in containers of seed starting mix. Cover very lightly. Keep evenly moist; germination is uneven and takes up to 21 days. Keep seedlings at 70°F (21°C) range, providing a strong light source. Feed every 7-10 days with half strength liquid fertilizer like fish emulsion solution. When seedlings are well-established, plant in the garden 8 inches apart, so plants have room to grow and mature.

GROWING NOTES

For growing success and optimum flavor and yield, growing celery plants must be kept consistently moist and well fed. Check often and water regularly; a thick mulch of compost helps maintain moisture. Fertilize every few weeks with a high nitrogen fertilizer or fish emulsion solution. Harvest outside stalks at maturity as needed or cut whole plant.