Why settle for store-bought when you can grow your own crisp, nutritious celery at home? With the right know-how and a few helpful tips, you can grow celery that will be the envy of even the most seasoned gardener.
Horticulturalist Marina Jordaan, based in Cradock, Eastern Cape, tells Health For Mzansi that celery is a biennial plant but for fresh production, it is planted and harvested as an annual crop.
“Celery (Apium graveolens) is an important aromatic plant grown for its edible stalks and used as a vegetable in various cuisines,” she says.
Regions with historical success in celery production include the Western Cape and parts of Gauteng. Jordaan explains that the Western Cape, with its Mediterranean climate, particularly areas like the Ceres Valley and the Overberg region, are known for their conducive growing conditions for celery.
“These areas boast fertile soils, suitable temperatures, and access to water for irrigation, all of which are important factors for successful celery cultivation,” Jordaan says.
Gauteng, specifically around Johannesburg and Pretoria, also has favourable conditions for production, with farmers often growing celery in the cooler months.
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How to plant celery
Celery can be planted year-round with adequate water. Angelo Marman, co-founder of Abitzfarming, recommends companion plants like sage, spring onion, dill, and rosemary to enhance health and productivity.
“All these plants will assist with pest control, although celery leaves are not commonly eaten by many pests,” says Marman.
He also suggests peas for their nitrogen-fixing properties and onions to help with pest control.
Marman recommends spacing plants 10 to 15cm apart and ensuring good soil nutrition, adequate water, and organic matter like compost.
“Ensuring good soil nutrition, adequate water supply, and organic matter like compost will result in a high-quality crop,” he says.
Plant celery in full sun to semi-shaded areas, manage fungal issues with apple cider vinegar or organic fungicides, and apply balanced fertilisers rich in phosphorus and potassium.
So, what are you waiting for? Start cultivating celery and enjoy all the goodness.
This article was first published on Health For Mzansi and written by Vateka Halile.
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