Seasoning Celery Amsterdam 8211 Renees Garden

Apium graveolens Heirloom Herbs A traditional Continental favorite, seasoning celery resembles big Italian parsley plants. This useful kitchen herb is grown for its sprays of glossy, celery-flavored leaves; it does not form thick stalks. The savory leaves have an intense celery taste that adds a rich, mellow undercurrent of flavor to stews, soups, casseroles or any slow cooking dish. Use the leafy sprigs in everyday cooking or just air dry the leaves to keep their sweet pungent flavor for long-term use. Seed Count: Approx. 670-680 / Weight: 0.25 g Plant In Sun/Shade Sow Seeds Days To Germinate Mature Height Cold Winters: April MayMild Winters: Mar. May Full sun orpartial shade 1 to 2 in. apartCover thinly 18 24 days 12 in. BIENNIAL, GROWN AS ANNUAL Spring/summer/fall harvestFrost Hardy TO PLANT DIRECTLY OUTDOORS Start leaf celery in spring, when weather is settled, but still cool. In mild winter climates, seed can also be started in fall. Plant in full sun or, in hot areas, where plants will get afternoon shade. Sow seeds 1 to 2 inches apart into well worked, fertile soil. Cover 1/4 inch deep. Be patient and be careful to keep seedbed evenly moist while awaiting germination which can be uneven. Thin groups of 3 to 4 seedlings 8 inches apart when several inches tall. TO START EARLY INDOORS Start in early spring 6 weeks before night temperatures will warm up to 50F (10C). Sow seeds 1 to 2 inches apart in a container of seed starting mix. Barely cover. Keep evenly moist but not soggy until germination takes place over 3 weeks.Provide a strong light source as soon as seedlings emerge. Plant out groups of 3 to 4 seedlings when 2 to 3 inches tall, spacing groups 8 inches apart. GROWING NOTES Water regularly and fertilize monthly with a high nitrogen source. Seasoning celery forms sprays of attractive leaves rather than thick stalks. Harvest sprays of leaves as needed once plant is well established. Hang leafy bunches upside down in a cool, well ventilated place to easily air dry for future use.