Celeriac Growing Guide

Introduction

Celeriac, also known as celery root, is a flavorful and versatile root vegetable that can be grown successfully in the United Kingdom. With its unique taste and culinary uses, growing celeriac in your garden can be a rewarding experience. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the process of growing celeriac, from selecting the right variety to providing the necessary care for a bountiful harvest. Let's get started!

Choosing the Right Variety

When it comes to celeriac, there are several varieties suitable for the UK climate. Here are some popular choices:

• 'Prinz': A popular variety known for its smooth, round roots and excellent flavor.
• 'Monarch': This variety produces large, uniform roots and is resistant to bolting.
• 'Brilliant': An outstanding variety with high yields and a sweet, nutty flavor.
• 'Giant Prague': This variety offers large roots and is known for its good storage qualities.

Sowing and Planting

Celeriac is typically grown from seeds. Follow these steps to sow and plant your celeriac:

1. Starting seeds indoors: Start celeriac seeds indoors 10-12 weeks before the last expected frost. Plant them in seed trays or pots filled with seed-starting mix, and keep them in a warm location with adequate sunlight.
2. Transplanting: When the seedlings have developed several sets of true leaves and the soil has warmed up, transplant them into the garden. Space the plants 12-18 inches apart in rows that are 24-30 inches apart.
3. Soil conditions: Celeriac prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Prepare the soil by incorporating compost or well-rotted manure.
4. Planting depth: Dig a hole that is large enough to accommodate the root ball of the celeriac seedling. Position the plant so that the base of the stem is level with the soil surface.
5. Watering: Water the soil thoroughly after transplanting to help the seedlings establish their roots.

Growing

To ensure healthy growth and a bountiful harvest of celeriac, consider the following tips:

• Sunlight: Celeriac prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Aim to provide them with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day.
• Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry spells. Celeriac requires regular watering to prevent the roots from becoming woody or splitting.
• Soil conditions: Celeriac prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Mulching around the plants can help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer or side-dress with compost or well-rotted manure during the growing season to provide additional nutrients.
• Thinning seedlings: When the seedlings have developed their first true leaves, thin them out to allow proper spacing. Leave the strongest seedlings spaced about 6-8 inches apart.
• Pest control: Monitor your celeriac plants for common pests such as aphids or slugs. Use organic or chemical controls as necessary.
• Harvesting: Celeriac is typically ready for harvest 100-120 days after sowing. Gently loosen the soil around the root and carefully lift it out of the ground.

Conclusion

Growing celeriac in the United Kingdom allows you to enjoy the unique flavor and culinary uses of this versatile root vegetable. By choosing the right variety, providing proper care, and addressing common challenges, you can cultivate healthy celeriac roots that add depth of flavor to your dishes. Whether you use them in soups, stews, or as a delicious mash, homegrown celeriac will elevate your culinary experiences. Happy celeriac growing!