Tango Celery

Planting:

Start indoors 10-12 weeks before last frost. Sow seed in 20 row flats on, soil surface and gently press to make good seed to soil contact or lightly cover with soil, no more than 1/8” as seed needs light to germinate. Germination occurs 7-14 days after sowing at a soil temperature of 21-24°c. Use a heat mat and cloche/dome to help retain heat and moisture during the germination process. Keep soil moist until germination occurs. Adequate moisture is needed for pelleted seeds. Once 50% of seeds have germinated, discontinue using heat mat and coverings. Soil should be allowed to dry slightly between waters but never to the point of wilt. Once the second set of true leaves emerges, transplant into 72 cell flats. Extended periods of 13°c will cause bolting in plants.

Growing:

Harden off outside 5-7 days when all threats of frost have passed, and temperatures remain above 13°c. Plant in full sun. Celery is a heavy feeder and grows best in soils amended with rich matter like compost or manure. pH of 6.5 is desired. Celery has a shallow root system. To conserve moisture and cut back on weeds, mulch around the plants and water during dry spells. Plants should not wilt at any point during growth. Hill around the base of plants to create a blanched stem.

Harvesting:

Young stalks on the outside of the plant can be harvested anytime. The entire plant is harvested once a desirable size is reached, remembering celery has a long maturity of 100-120 days. For best flavour and longer storage, water plants the day before harvest.

Pests & Diseases:

Aster Yellows which is caused by leaf hoppers can cause new growth to be distorted. Spray plants during the evening with an insecticidal soap or pyrethrum product.

Companions:

Everything except carrot, parsley, dill and parsnip.