Overview of Apium graveolens dulce
Apium graveolens dulce belongs to the Apiaceae family, commonly known as celery. The plant is also known as common celery, Pascal celery, and stalk celery. It is widely grown and consumed as a vegetable all over the world. The plant is native to the Mediterranean region and now commercially grown in different parts of the world.
General appearance of Apium graveolens dulce
The plant has a long, slender, and crisp stem called a stalk that emerges from the ground and grows up to 1.5 feet high. The stalks are usually green with a fibrous texture and are packed with edible leaves at the top. The leaves are green, feather-like, and contain a distinct aroma and flavor.
The plant also has a taproot, numerous stems, and compound leaves that are arranged alternately along the stems. The flowers of the plant are small and white, and they grow in clusters known as umbels.
Uses of Apium graveolens dulce
Celery is widely used in cooking, and the entire plant is edible, including the stalks, leaves, and seeds. The plant is an excellent source of essential vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, making it a healthy addition to various dishes.
The stalks of celery are chopped or sliced and used in salads, soups, stews, and stir-fries. The leaves are chopped and used as a garnish or seasoning in various dishes. The seeds of the plant are used as a spice in cooking, and they have a distinct earthy and sweet flavor.
Besides its culinary uses, celery is also used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments. It contains compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making it beneficial for treating inflammation and oxidative stress-related diseases.
Conclusion
Celery is a popular and nutritious vegetable with a distinct aroma and flavor. It's widely used in cooking and has various health benefits due to its high nutrient content. The plant is relatively easy to grow and maintain, making it an excellent addition to any garden or home vegetable patch.
Light Requirements
Apium graveolens dulce, commonly referred to as celery, requires a significant amount of sunlight to grow. The recommended amount of light for optimal growth is around six to eight hours per day. Celery plants grow best in full sun or partial shade. If grown in an area with extreme heat, the plant may require more shade to avoid drying out.
Temperature Requirements
Celery plants grow best in cool temperatures. The ideal temperature for growth is between 60°F - 70°F (15.6°C - 21.1°C), however, it can tolerate temperatures as high as 80°F (26.7°C). Extreme temperatures can cause the plant to bolt, meaning it will flower and stop producing edible stems. Therefore, it is recommended to grow celery in the cooler months of spring and fall.
Soil Requirements
The ideal soil requirements for celery plants include well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 - 7.0. The soil should be rich in organic matter, such as compost or aged manure, to provide the necessary nutrients for growth. Celery plants thrive in moist soil, but also require good drainage to prevent root rot. It is recommended to add a layer of mulch to keep the soil moist.
Cultivation of Apium graveolens dulce
Apium graveolens dulce, commonly known as celery, is a cool-season crop that requires a long growing season. It is best to plant celery seeds indoors in seed-starting trays, 8-10 weeks before the last spring frost in your area..
Transplant celery seedlings outdoors when they reach 6-7 inches tall and have at least two true leaves. The optimum temperature range for the growth of celery is 60-70°F. Therefore, plant celery in a spot that receives full sun for at least 6 hours every day and in soil that is rich in organic matter and well-draining.
Watering Needs of Apium graveolens dulce
Celery needs about 1-1.5 inches of water per week. The soil around the celery plants must always be moist but not waterlogged. Irrigate celery using a soaker hose or drip irrigation system, which prevent water from accumulating on the leaves.
One way to ensure that your celery plants get sufficient water is to mulch them with a layer of organic material to help retain moisture in the soil and prevent evaporation.
Fertilization of Apium graveolens dulce
Celery is a heavy feeder and requires rich, fertile soil to grow well. It would be best to incorporate plenty of organic matter like compost or aged manure with the soil before planting celery seedlings.
After planting, side-dress the celery plants with a balanced fertilizer like 10-10-10 every two weeks until they form heads. Alternatively, you can use a liquid fertilizer like fish emulsion, dilute it according to the instructions, and apply it to the celery plants as a foliar spray.
Pruning of Apium graveolens dulce
Pruning celery plants is not necessary. However, you can selectively remove outer stalks from the base of the plant, starting when they become a reasonable size for use in your recipes. It is best to cut the outer stalks at the base using sharp and clean scissors or shears, leaving the inner stalks to continue growing. This process promotes the development of new stalks and increases the overall yield of the celery plant.
Propagation of Apium graveolens dulce
There are several methods you can use to propagate Apium graveolens dulce, commonly known as celery. These include:
Seed Propagation
One of the most common methods of propagating celery is through seedlings. You can plant celery seeds indoors in a pot or seed tray and later transplant the seedlings outside once they are 3-4 inches tall. Celery seeds can take up to 2-3 weeks to germinate, and seedlings should be kept in a warm and moist environment until they are ready for transplanting.
Stem Propagation
Celery is also propagated through stem cuttings. Cut a 6-inch-long section of a celery stem and place it in a glass of water. Once the roots have grown to about 2 inches, the cutting can be transplanted into soil.
Division Propagation
Dividing celery is best done in the spring. Dig up the mature celery root and separate it into smaller sections, ensuring that each section has some roots attached. Replant the divided celery sections in your desired location.
Regardless of the propagation method used, be sure to keep the soil moist and the new plants in a warm environment until they have established roots.
Diseases Affecting Apium Graveolens Dulce
Apium graveolens dulce, commonly known as celery, may be affected by various diseases. Some of the common diseases affecting the plant include:
- Leaf spot – This disease is caused by various fungi and bacteria. It is characterized by brown or black spots on the leaves. To manage leaf spot, ensure proper sanitation, avoid overcrowding, and apply fungicides.
- Blights – The disease is caused by fungi, and it results in yellowing and wilting of the leaves. Proper sanitation and application of fungicides can help control blights.
- Mosaic virus – Mosaic virus causes yellow mottling of the leaves and stunted growth. Ensure that you remove infected plants and use insecticides to control the spread of the virus.
- Root rot – This disease is caused by various fungi that attack and decay the roots. It is promoted by poorly-drained soils and can be managed by using well-draining soils or applying fungicides.
Pests Affecting Apium Graveolens Dulce
The following are some of the common pests that may affect Apium graveolens dulce:
- Aphids – Aphids are small pests that feed on the plant sap and can transmit viruses. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to manage aphids.
- Spider mites – These are tiny pests that feed on the plant sap, causing yellowing and wilting of the leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control spider mites.
- Whiteflies – These pests attack the plants by sucking the sap and causing yellowing and wilting of the leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to manage whiteflies.
- Slugs and snails – These pests feed on the leaves, causing holes and damage. To control slugs and snails, use slug baits and handpick them off the plant.
- Celery leaf tier – This is a caterpillar that feeds on the leaves and ties them together with silk. Handpick and dispose of affected leaves or use Bacillus thuringiensis to manage celery leaf tier.
