Apium graveolens
fruit vegetableN. America Native

Celery

Apium graveolens

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Fruit Vegetable

Height

36 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Consistent moisture

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Annual

Native To

Mediterranean region

Toxicity

Non-toxic

The Story

Plant Bio

Celery is a biennial herb known for its stalks and leaves used as a vegetable. Varieties of celery are cultivated for their edible stalks and can also produce seeds.

Bloom Period:

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesAdds lush, aromatic foliage to gardens and containers, enhancing visual and sensory appeal.
Practical UsesProvides fresh herbs for culinary uses, promoting healthy eating.
Ecological BenefitsSupports pollinators like bees with its fragrant flowers.

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring for best germination.
  2. Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and encourage rooting.
  3. Transplant seedlings when they have 2-3 true leaves, about 4 weeks after germination.
  4. Water consistently to keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged.
  5. Fertilize monthly with a balanced organic fertilizer during the growing season.
  6. Harvest leaves as needed once plants are established, usually after 8 weeks.

Pro Tip

Use rich, well-draining soil and provide partial shade in hot climates for optimal growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
  • Provide partial shade in hot weather
  • Fertilize monthly during growing season
  • Mulch to retain soil moisture

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot ❌
  • Don’t expose to full harsh sun in peak summer
  • Avoid using chemical pesticides without organic options
  • Don’t neglect thinning seedlings to prevent overcrowding

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Fertilize
Harvest
Pest Check
Plant

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Herbaceous border with aromatic, edible leavesVegetable garden for fresh herbsContainer plant on patio or balcony

Companion Plants

Tomatoes Carrots Lettuce Cabbage Cilantro

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Celery questions

What zones can Celery grow in?

Celery is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Celery deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Celery, especially tender spring growth β€” plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Celery bloom?

Celery typically blooms in late summer through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone β€” Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Celery need full sun?

Celery does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Keep exploring

Grow Celery with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.