Golden Self Blanching Celery Growing Guide

Golden Self Blanching Celery (Apium graveolens var. dulce) is a unique variety of celery known for its golden-yellow stalks and mild, sweet flavor. This variety is easier to grow than traditional celery, as it naturally blanches itself, requiring less effort to produce tender, flavorful stalks. Growing Golden Self Blanching Celery can be rewarding and provides a nutritious addition to your garden.

   

Planting Golden Self Blanching Celery

Sunlight: Choose a location that receives full sun to partial shade. Celery prefers cooler temperatures and can benefit from some afternoon shade in hotter climates.

Soil: Prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Amend the soil with plenty of compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility, moisture retention, and drainage.

When to Plant: Celery is a cool-season crop that should be started indoors 10-12 weeks before the last expected frost date. Transplant seedlings outdoors 2-3 weeks before the last frost date in spring or in late summer for a fall crop.

Starting Indoors: Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep in seed-starting mix. Keep the soil moist and maintain a temperature of 70-75°F (21-24°C). Celery seeds require light to germinate, so cover them lightly with soil. Transplant seedlings outdoors when they are about 4-6 inches tall and have at least 2-3 true leaves.

Transplanting: Space plants 6-8 inches apart in rows spaced 24-36 inches apart. Dig a hole deep enough to cover the root ball and a portion of the stem to encourage strong root development.

 

Caring for Golden Self Blanching Celery

Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Celery has shallow roots and requires regular watering, especially during dry periods. Mulch around the plants to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.

Fertilization: Celery is a heavy feeder. Apply a balanced fertilizer or compost at planting time. Side-dress with compost or a balanced fertilizer every 3-4 weeks during the growing season to support continuous growth.

Mulching and Weeding: Apply a layer of mulch around the plants to retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and keep the soil temperature consistent. Hand-pull weeds carefully to avoid disturbing the shallow roots of the celery.

Blanching: Golden Self Blanching Celery naturally blanches itself, but additional blanching can be done if desired. To blanch, mound soil or place boards around the base of the plants a few weeks before harvesting to block out light, making the stalks more tender and reducing bitterness.

Pest and Disease Management: Celery can be susceptible to pests such as aphids, slugs, and celery leaf miners. Use organic pest control methods like neem oil, insecticidal soap, or hand-picking to manage infestations. Practice crop rotation and ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases like early blight and root rot.

 

Harvesting Golden Self Blanching Celery

When to Harvest: Golden Self Blanching Celery is typically ready to harvest 85-110 days after transplanting. Harvest when the stalks are thick, crisp, and about 8-12 inches tall.

How to Harvest: Use a sharp knife or garden shears to cut the entire plant at the base, just above the soil level. Alternatively, individual stalks can be harvested as needed by cutting them from the outside of the plant.

 

Storing and Using Self Blanching Celery

Storing Fresh Celery: Freshly harvested celery can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Wrap the stalks in a damp paper towel and place them in a plastic bag or container to retain moisture.

Culinary Uses: Golden Self Blanching Celery is perfect for fresh eating, adding to salads, soups, stews, and stir-fries. Its mild, sweet flavor and crisp texture make it a versatile addition to many dishes.

 

Benefits of Growing Self Blanching Celery

Self-Blanching: Naturally blanches itself, requiring less effort to produce tender, flavorful stalks.

Nutrient-Rich: High in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber and antioxidants.

Versatile Use: Excellent for fresh eating, cooking, and adding to various dishes.

Easy to Grow: Suitable for beginners and thrives in cooler temperatures.

 

Growing Golden Self Blanching Celery in your garden ensures a continuous supply of tender and flavorful stalks throughout the growing season. Enjoy the mild, sweet taste and numerous health benefits of this versatile and easy-to-grow variety!