If you love root vegetables, you're going to love celeriac! Chances are, you've probably never even heard of this root vegetable, much less consumed it. So what exactly is celeriac and where does it grow? Celeriac grows primarily in Northern Europe and in the Mediterranean region, as is a popular staple in most European kitchens. Used to enhance the taste of soups and stews, celeriac can be easily grown in North America, especially in the cooler regions. Keep reading to find out more about how to grow celeriac in your own garden!
How to Grow Celeriac
Although you can eat celeriac leaves, the celeriac plant is mostly grown for its large roots once they are about baseball sized around 4 inches in diameter. Celeriac is also sometimes called celery root because it does taste like celery stalks and is also in the same family.
Growing Celeriac:
- Plant celeriac seeds in the spring in 4 to 6 weeks prior to transplanting outdoors.
- In some areas, celeriac seeds can also be planted in the summer for a winter or spring harvest.
- Use well draining potting soil and keep the soil moist. Seedlings should emerge within 21 days.
- Once seedlings reach a height of 2-2 1/2 inches, transplant to a sunny area 6 inches by 24 inches apart two weeks before the last frost date.
- Mulch with straw or leaves to protect from any impending frost.
- Fertilize while in the growing stages and water regularly.
Harvesting Celeriac:
- Depending on the variety of celeriac seed you purchased, it can reach maturity anywhere from 150 to 200 days.
- You can harvest celeriac at any point though, depending on how big you'd like the root. Bigger roots are harder to clean and peel, but will still taste the same as a smaller root.
Now that you know how to grow celeriac, AKA celery root, it's time to roll up your sleeves and get to planting!
Happy Planting!
