Celeriac

Scientific Name

Apium graveolens var. rapaceum

Description

Celeriac, also known as celery root or Apium graveolens var. rapaceum, is a biennial plant cultivated primarily for its edible, bulbous root. It is a member of the Apiaceae family, which includes carrots, parsley, and regular celery. Celeriac is characterized by its knobby, rough exterior, which can range in color from pale yellow to light brown. The root has a firm, dense texture and a distinctive, mildly fragrant flavor that resembles celery with earthy undertones.

The plant typically grows to about 1 to 2 feet tall and develops a rosette of broad, green leaves atop long stalks. Celeriac prefers cool, moist climates and is usually planted in the spring for a late summer to fall harvest. It thrives in well-drained, fertile soil with plenty of organic matter and requires regular watering to prevent the roots from becoming woody or tough.

Harvesting celeriac is generally done when the roots reach about 4 to 6 inches in diameter. To prepare celeriac for cooking, the skin is usually peeled away, revealing the creamy-white flesh underneath. It can be eaten raw in salads, grated, or cooked in a variety of dishes, including soups, stews, or purees.

Additionally, celeriac is a nutritious vegetable rich in vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, making it a valuable addition to a healthy diet. With proper care and growing conditions, celeriac can be a rewarding crop for home gardeners looking to explore unique flavors in their meals.

Where it Grows

When to Plant

Timing for Planting Celeriac

Celeriac, also known as celery root or Apium graveolens var. rapaceum, is a cool-season vegetable that requires careful consideration of planting timing to ensure a successful harvest. Understanding the growing season and regional climate can help amateur gardeners determine the optimal time for planting celeriac in their gardens.

Ideal Planting Time

1. Starting Indoors:

• Celeriac has a relatively long growing season, typically ranging from 90 to 120 days until harvest. Therefore, starting seeds indoors is beneficial, especially in cooler climates.
• Start seeds indoors about 10 to 12 weeks before the last expected frost date in your area. This usually means late winter to early spring, depending on your local climate.

2. Transplanting Outdoors:

• Once the seedlings are about 4 to 6 inches tall and the soil temperature has warmed to around 50°F (10°C) or higher, they can be transplanted outdoors.
• This generally occurs 2 to 4 weeks before the last frost date. Celeriac can tolerate light frosts, which can even enhance its flavor, making early planting advantageous.

3. Direct Sowing:

• In regions with milder climates, celeriac may also be sown directly into the garden bed once the soil temperature is adequate and about the same timeframe as transplanting (after the last frost).
• However, direct sowing is less common as celeriac seeds can be slow to germinate, typically taking 14 to 21 days.

Considerations for Climate

• Cooler Regions: If you are in a cooler region, focus on starting seeds indoors early and transplanting in spring.
• Warmer Regions: In warmer climates, celeriac can be planted in late summer for a fall harvest, taking advantage of cooler temperatures in the autumn which promote better growth.

Conclusion

Timing is crucial when planting celeriac to ensure that the plants grow well and develop the desired flavor and size. By considering your local frost dates and soil temperatures, you can effectively plan for both indoor seed starting and outdoor transplanting, securing a bountiful harvest of this unique and flavorful vegetable.

How to Plant

Celeriac, also known as celery root, is a versatile vegetable appreciated for its unique flavor and texture. To successfully plant celeriac, follow these steps for optimal growth.

1. Timing: Start your seeds indoors about 12-14 weeks before the last expected frost date. Celeriac has a long growing season, so starting early ensures a healthy harvest. Transplant seedlings outdoors after the danger of frost has passed.

2. Seedling Preparation: Sow seeds in seed trays or pots filled with a seed-starting mix. Celeriac seeds are tiny, so sprinkle them on the surface and lightly cover with soil. Keep the soil moist and provide warmth (around 70°F or 21°C) for germination, which takes about 2-3 weeks.

3. Transplanting: Once seedlings reach about 4-6 inches tall, harden them off by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions over a week. Choose a planting site with well-drained, rich soil, preferably with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0.

4. Spacing: Plant seedlings 8-10 inches apart in rows spaced 2-3 feet apart, allowing ample room for their growth.

5. Care: Keep the soil consistently moist and mulch around the plants to retain moisture. Regular feeding with a balanced fertilizer promotes robust roots, leading to a successful harvest in late autumn.

Watering

Watering celeriac (Apium graveolens var. rapaceum) is crucial for optimal growth and bulb development. The best strategy involves consistent moisture management. Celeriac prefers evenly moist soil, so aim to keep the soil damp but not waterlogged, as excessive moisture can lead to root rot.

Water deeply once or twice a week, depending on weather conditions, ensuring that the water penetrates at least 6-8 inches into the soil to encourage deep root growth. Use mulch around the base of the plants to help retain soil moisture and maintain a uniform temperature.

During hotter months, you may need to increase the frequency of watering. Monitor for wilting or yellowing leaves, which can indicate insufficient water. Always water in the morning to reduce evaporation and minimize disease risk. Maintaining a consistent watering schedule will promote healthy growth and robust tuber formation.

Pruning

Pruning celeriac (Apium graveolens var. rapaceum) is less about shaping the plant and more about managing its growth and ensuring healthy development. The best strategy involves several key steps:

1. Timing: Prune celeriac in early spring as new growth begins, ideally when the plant reaches about 6 inches tall.

2. Removing Dead or Damaged Leaves: Start by cutting away any yellowing or damaged leaves at the base to promote healthier growth and airflow.

3. Thinning: If plants are overcrowded, selectively remove weaker seedlings to give others more space to thrive. Aim for a final spacing of about 12 inches between plants.

4. Topping: Pinching off the growing tips can encourage lateral growth and improve bulb formation.

5. Regular Maintenance: Continue monitoring the plant throughout the growing season, removing any undesirable growth as needed to facilitate better light and air circulation.

These steps help ensure a robust celeriac harvest.

Weeding

Weeding around celeriac (Apium graveolens var. rapaceum) is crucial for optimal growth, as these plants thrive best in weed-free conditions. The best strategy involves a combination of manual and mulching techniques.

Manual Weeding: Regularly inspect the soil around your celeriac plants, ideally weekly. Removing weeds by hand or with a hoe is effective, especially when they are young. Be careful to avoid disturbing the shallow roots of the celeriac.

Mulching: Applying a layer of organic mulch, such as straw or shredded leaves, can significantly suppress weed growth. Mulch not only helps retain soil moisture but also adds nutrients to the soil as it breaks down.

Overall, maintaining consistent weeding practices while utilizing mulch will help create a healthy environment for celeriac, reducing competition for nutrients and water.

Mulching

Mulching is an essential practice for growing celeriac (Apium graveolens var. rapaceum), as it helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and maintain soil temperature. For optimal results, choose organic mulches like straw, grass clippings, or shredded leaves that break down over time, enriching the soil.

Begin mulching after the celeriac seedlings are established and the soil warms up, generally when they are about 4-6 weeks old. Apply a layer of mulch 2-3 inches thick around the base of the plants, ensuring not to pile it against the stems to prevent rot. Continue to monitor moisture levels, especially during dry spells, and replenish the mulch as needed to maintain its effectiveness. This strategy not only promotes healthier growth but also enhances the flavor of the celeriac root by providing a stable growing environment throughout the season.

Fertilizing

Celeriac, or celery root (Apium graveolens var. rapaceum), thrives with a balanced fertilization strategy that focuses on nutrient-rich soil. Before planting, incorporate well-rotted compost or a general-purpose organic fertilizer to establish a nutrient base.

As celeriac grows, it benefits from regular feeding. A balanced fertilizer with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (e.g., 10-10-10) should be applied every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. This supports robust foliage and promotes bulb development.

In addition, consider liquid fertilizers, which can be used monthly to provide a quick nutrient boost. Be careful not to over-fertilize, as excess nitrogen can lead to lush foliage at the expense of root size. Always follow soil testing recommendations to tailor your fertilization for the specific needs of your celeriac plants. Proper watering and mulching can enhance nutrient absorption and overall plant health.

Varieties

Common Varieties of Celeriac (Apium graveolens var. rapaceum)

Celeriac, also known as celery root, is prized for its unique flavor and versatility in the kitchen. As a root vegetable, it has become increasingly popular among gardeners and chefs alike. While there are several varieties of celeriac, the following list highlights some of the most common:

1. Giant Prague:

   • This variety is known for its large, round roots and excellent flavor. It is a reliable choice for home gardeners and is resistant to bolting, making it suitable for a range of growing conditions.

2. Monarch:

   • Monarch celeriac is characterized by its smooth, light-colored skin and excellent storage capabilities. Its roots are firm and have a mild flavor, making it ideal for soups, purées, and salads.

3. Large Smooth Prague:

   • This variety produces large, glossy roots with a creamy white interior. It is favored for its high yield and smooth texture, making it easy to peel and prepare in the kitchen.

4. Tango:

   • Tango celeriac is known for its uniform size and round shape. It offers a sweet, mild flavor and is typically ready for harvest in about 90-100 days. This variety is popular among commercial growers for its consistent quality.

5. Hollow Crown:

   • As one of the older varieties, Hollow Crown has a distinctive growth habit with a hollow center. Its roots are more elongated than other types and have a robust flavor that is perfect for hearty dishes.

6. Delicacy:

   • This newer variety features a smooth, light-colored skin and produces medium-sized roots. Delicacy celeriac is known for its exceptional flavor and tender texture, often preferred for fresh preparations or sautéing.

7. L'Innocente:

   • This variety is well-regarded for its large, round shape and is known for having a particularly mild taste. It's often grown for both home use and in market gardens.

Growing Considerations

When choosing a variety of celeriac to grow, consider factors such as your local climate, the length of your growing season, and your specific taste preferences. Celeriac prefers cool weather and benefits from being started indoors before being transplanted outside. Proper spacing and consistent watering during its growth phase are essential for producing quality roots.

By understanding the characteristics of these common celeriac varieties, you can select the one that best suits your gardening needs and culinary interests.

Nutritional Composition (per 100g)

Nutrient	Amount per 100g	% Daily Value
Calories	42	2%
Protein	1.5g	3%
Total Fat	0.3g	0%
Saturated Fat	0.1g	0%
Carbohydrates	9.2g	3%
Dietary Fiber	1.8g	7%
Sugars	5.0g	6%
Vitamin C	8mg	9%
Vitamin K	0.4µg	1%
Potassium	316mg	7%
Calcium	30mg	3%
Iron	0.7mg	4%

Health Benefits

Celeriac, or celery root, is a versatile vegetable known not only for its unique flavor but also for its numerous health and wellness benefits. Packed with essential nutrients, including vitamins C, K, and B6, as well as minerals like potassium and phosphorus, celeriac supports overall health.

One of the primary health benefits of celeriac is its high fiber content, which aids in digestion and promotes gut health. The dietary fiber helps prevent constipation and can contribute to a healthier weight by enhancing feelings of fullness. Additionally, celeriac is low in calories, making it an excellent choice for those looking to manage their weight while still enjoying delicious meals.

Celeriac is also a source of antioxidants, which help combat oxidative stress and inflammation in the body. This can play a role in reducing the risk of chronic diseases, such as heart disease and certain cancers. Furthermore, the vegetable’s potassium content supports healthy blood pressure levels, making it beneficial for cardiovascular health.

Incorporating celeriac into your diet can be as simple as using it in soups, salads, or as a flavorful mash, ensuring that you reap its nutritional rewards while enjoying its distinct taste.

Fun Facts

Fun Facts about Celeriac

• Unique Appearance: Celeriac, or celery root, is known for its large, knobby, and gnarled appearance, which can be surprising to those more familiar with its leafy cousin, celery.

• Flavor Profile: It has a distinctive taste that combines the earthy, nutty qualities of celery with a slightly sweet flavor, making it a versatile ingredient in soups, stews, and purees.

• Nutrient-Rich: Celeriac is low in calories but rich in vitamins, particularly vitamin K and vitamin C, as well as minerals like potassium and phosphorus, making it a healthy choice for many diets.

• Long Growing Season: Celeriac typically requires a long growing season of about 100 to 120 days, making it necessary to start seeds indoors in cooler climates before transplanting them outside.

• Historical Cultivation: This unique root vegetable has been cultivated since ancient times, originating in the Mediterranean region and originally used primarily for its medicinal properties before becoming a popular food source.