Celery
Apium graveolens
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Description
Celery (Apium graveolens) is a biennial plant in the Apiaceae family, cultivated for its edible stalks, leaves, and seeds. In agroecology and regenerative agriculture, celery serves as an understory plant in food forests, contributing to soil health and moisture retention. Its dense foliage suppresses weeds and provides habitat for beneficial insects. Celery is traditionally used in Mediterranean cuisine and has historical significance as a medicinal plant. It pairs well with onions, carrots, and leeks in guilds, enhancing biodiversity and resilience in polycultures. Its ability to grow in cooler climates and preference for well-drained, fertile soils make it a valuable addition to sustainable agricultural systems.
Growing Details
Celery requires a long growing season and is best started indoors 10-12 weeks before the last frost. Prepare soil by incorporating well-rotted compost to enhance fertility and drainage. Mulch with organic materials like straw to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants include onions, carrots, and leeks, which help deter pests. Avoid planting near corn or potatoes. Harvest stalks when they reach 20-25 cm in height, typically 85-120 days after transplanting. Store harvested celery in
Edible Parts
Leaves
Seed
Stem
Tags
Carbon Farming
Attracts Wildlife
Scented Plant
Erosion Preventing
Bee Friendly
Visual Appeal
Easy Propagating
Winter Edible
Range (Based on GBIF Data)
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Apium graveolens</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.
Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> โ Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Location & Timing
native geo location: Native to the Mediterranean region
applicable geo region: Temperate regions worldwide
language used: en
Flowering:
beginning
of Jun for 30 days
Harvest:
beginning
of August for 60 days
Seed Start:
beginning
of February
Indoor Start:
beginning
of February
Transplant:
middle
of April
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(4/5)
edible uses: Celery is primarily consumed for its stalks, which are eaten raw or cooked. The leaves can be used as a herb in soups and salads, while the seeds are used as a spice or in pickling. Celery is rich in vitamins K and C, and its crunchy texture makes it a popular snack.
Medicinal Rating:
(3/5)
medicinal uses: Celery has been used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory properties and as a diuretic. It is believed to help lower blood pressure and improve digestion. Celery seeds are used in herbal remedies for arthritis and gout. Caution is advised for individuals with celery allergies.
health concerns: Celery can cause allergic reactions in some individuals, particularly those with pollen allergies. It may also increase photosensitivity in some people.
other uses: Celery can be used as mulch due to its dense foliage, which helps suppress weeds and retain soil moisture. It also serves as a habitat for beneficial insects in agroecological systems.
Scientific Literature
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Botanical data
specie: Apium graveolens
common names: Celery; Celeriac; Smallage
family: Apiaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Apium
Growing Conditions
area needed: 0.1 m
spacing: 0.3 m
growing difficulty: Medium
Deciduous / Evergreen: Evergreen
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 21ยฐC / 15ยฐC / 25ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 18ยฐC / 10ยฐC / 24ยฐC
water demands: High
humidity: Medium
light demands: High
root type: Medium
frost tender: Medium
hardness:
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(5/10)
first harvest: 1 years
life span: 2 years
succession: Mid
growth rate: Medium
max height: 1.0 m
max width: 0.3 m
soil preference:
Medium (Loam)
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
Hermaphrodite
growth details: Celery requires a long growing season and is best started indoors 10-12 weeks before the last frost. Prepare soil by incorporating well-rotted compost to enhance fertility and drainage. Mulch with organic materials like straw to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants include onions, carrots, and leeks, which help deter pests. Avoid planting near corn or potatoes. Harvest stalks when they reach 20-25 cm in height, typically 85-120 days after transplanting. Store harvested celery in
Potential Disturbances: Common pests include aphids, slugs, and celery leaf miner. Introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings to control aphid populations. Plant marigolds nearby to repel nematodes. Use neem oil or garlic spray as organic pest control. Trap cropping with nasturtiums can help manage aphid infestations.
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