Are you tired of constantly buying celery at the grocery store only to have it go limp and flavorless in your fridge? What if we told you that you could have an endless supply of fresh, crisp celery right at your fingertips?
With this simple guide, you can learn how to grow your celery indoors, no matter the season or your level of gardening experience.
Imagine plucking a few stalks of celery from your windowsill whenever you need them for a recipe or a healthy snack.1 Not only will you save money on your grocery bill, but you’ll also have the satisfaction of knowing exactly where your food comes from.
Choosing the Right Container & Location
When it comes to growing celery indoors, selecting the appropriate container is crucial. Opt for a pot that is at least 8 inches deep and wide, as celery plants require ample space for their roots to grow. Ensure that your chosen container has proper drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.
Finding the perfect spot for your celery container is equally important. Celery thrives in bright, indirect light, so a sunny windowsill or a well-lit area of your home is ideal.
If you don’t have a suitable location with natural light, consider using grow lights to provide your celery plants with the necessary illumination for healthy growth.
Preparing the Soil & Planting Your Celery
To give your celery the best start, fill your container with a high-quality, well-draining potting mix. Celery prefers nutrient-rich soil that retains moisture without becoming soggy. You can enhance the soil by mixing in some compost or slow-release fertilizer to provide a steady supply of nutrients throughout the growing season.
When it comes to planting, you have two options: starting from seed or using store-bought celery. If starting from seed, sow them about 1/4 inch deep and keep the soil consistently moist until germination occurs. If using store-bought celery, cut off the base, leaving about 2 inches of the stalk intact, and place it in a shallow dish of water until roots begin to form.
Once roots appear, transplant the celery base into your prepared container.
Caring for Your Indoor Celery Plants
Watering is key to growing healthy and vibrant celery plants. Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Celery is a thirsty plant, so be prepared to water it frequently, especially during warmer months. A good rule of thumb is to check the soil daily and water when the top inch feels dry to the touch.
Fertilizing your celery plants every few weeks will ensure they receive the necessary nutrients for optimal growth. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half-strength to avoid burning the delicate roots. Alternatively, you can top-dress the soil with compost or aged manure every month to provide a slow release of nutrients.
Harvesting & Enjoying Your Fresh Celery
One of the best things about growing celery indoors is the ability to harvest it as needed. Once your celery stalks reach about 6 inches tall, you can begin harvesting the outer stalks, leaving the inner ones to continue growing.
Simply cut the stalks at the base, rinse them off, and enjoy your fresh, homegrown celery in your favorite recipes or as a healthy snack.
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.