Species celeriac
green leaves and stems

celeriac

Apium graveolens var. rapaceum

Celeriac is an amazing plant species that packs a hearty crunch and a unique flavor. Native to the Mediterranean region, celeriac is grown for its root, which is celery-like in taste and aroma but milder with an earthier flavor. The round, knobbly root has thick brown skin that must be peeled before consumption. Not only is celeriac delicious as a vegetable side dish, but it can also be used in stews, soups, and casseroles, making it a truly versatile cooking ingredient. When roasted, celeriac has a smoky, nutty taste, to which few ingredients can compare. Moreover, celeriac is packed with vitamins and minerals, making it a great addition to any healthy meal.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Division,Grafting Propagation,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

3 - 6

Flowers:

Green to white (2nd year) Flowers

Sun:

full sun,part shade

Fruits:

green,brown Fruits Ready In

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Moderate

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Celeriac should be watered when the top inch of the soil is dry. This typically happens once a week for most celeriac plants. In periods of hot or especially dry weather, watering may need to be increased to twice a week. Make sure to water the soil thoroughly so the moisture penetrates several inches deep. It is important to water evenly and to avoid wetting the foliage of the plant. Over-watering should be avoided, as this can lead to root rot and other diseases. If water is allowed to gather around the base of the plant, it can easily encourage disease. Make sure to water your celeriac early in the day which will give it plenty of time to absorb the water before the temperature drops at night.

sunlight

Celeriac thrives in full sunlight, receiving at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Ideally, this sun exposure should take place between the early morning hours and mid-afternoon, when the sun is at its brightest and strongest. This will ensure that the plant receives enough energy from the sunlight to develop its root system and grow healthy stems and foliage.

pruning

Celeriac should be pruned at least once a year for best results. Pruning should be done around late March or early April. Start by cutting away any dead or diseased parts of the plant with sharp, clean shears. Then prune away any extra growth—such as flowers and leaves that have reached the end of their life—to encourage new growth. Pruning the top of the plant will also encourage the plant to become more full and bushy. Finally, remove any lateral branches, or branches between the main stem and the base of the plant, to reduce competition for nutrients and light. After each pruning session, loosen the soil around the base of the plant to allow for better aeration and drainage.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Harvest Fruit

The harvesting season for celeriac typically begins in late September and continues through November.

Starts Flowering

Celeriac typically starts flowering in June or July.

Hardiness Map