Overview
Apium graveolens L. var. rapaceum (Miller) Gaudin, commonly known as celeriac, is a root vegetable that is a part of the Apiaceae family. It originates from the Mediterranean region and is widely cultivated in Europe, Asia, and North America.
Appearance
Celeriac has a distinct appearance, featuring a bulbous root that is roughly the size of a grapefruit. It is covered in rough, brown skin and has a knobby appearance. Inside, the flesh is creamy white and has a firm, dense texture.
Common Names
Celeriac is known by a variety of names in different regions, including celery root, knob celery, and turnip rooted celery.
Uses
Celeriac is a versatile vegetable that can be prepared in a variety of ways. It is often used in soups, stews, and casseroles but can also be roasted, grilled, or sautéed. The root has a slightly sweet, nutty flavor and pairs well with a variety of ingredients, including cream, garlic, and cheese.
Additionally, celeriac is a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and dietary fiber and is considered a healthy addition to any diet.
Light Requirements
Apium graveolens L. var. rapaceum grows best in full sunlight to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but for best growth, it should receive at least 6 hours of sunlight a day. If it receives less than 4 hours of sunlight a day, it may not produce a full harvest.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is typically grown in cool weather climates. It prefers temperatures between 60-70°F (15-21°C). It can tolerate colder temperatures and even light frosts, but prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures can cause the roots to rot. It is not recommended to grow it in hot climates as it can run to seed too quickly and not have a full bulb develop.
Soil Requirements
Apium graveolens L. var. rapaceum prefers a rich, loamy soil that is well-draining, and has a pH range between 6.0-7.0. Heavy soils can cause the root to be deformed, so soils with good drainage will help produce uniform roots. Adding organic matter like well-rotted compost to the soil will also improve the soil structure and provide the necessary nutrients for the plant's growth.
Cultivation of Apium Graveolens L. var. Rapaceum (Miller) Gaudin
The best time to plant celery root is in late spring, about two weeks after the last frost. It is important to choose a location where the plant will receive full sun. Celery root prefers moist, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
Start by preparing the soil by tilling it to a depth of at least 8 inches. Add compost or well-aged manure to improve the soil's fertility. Plant the seedlings about 6 inches apart and ¼ inch deep. Water the plants well and keep them moist until they establish roots.
Celery root can also be grown in containers. Choose a container that is at least 12 inches deep and wide. Fill the container with potting mix and plant the seedlings about 6 inches apart. Keep the soil consistently moist.
Watering Needs
Celery root needs consistent moisture to grow well. It is important to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. Water the plants deeply once a week, or more frequently during hot, dry weather. Avoid getting water on the leaves as this can cause disease.
Fertilization
Celery root benefits from regular applications of fertilizer. Use a balanced fertilizer every four to six weeks to promote healthy growth. You can also top-dress the soil with compost or well-aged manure to improve soil fertility.
Pruning
Celery root does not require extensive pruning. However, you can remove any dead or damaged leaves as needed. This will help keep the plant healthy and prevent disease.
Harvest the celery root when it reaches full size, usually after 100 to 120 days. You can harvest the entire plant or remove only the root and leave the plant in the ground to produce more leaves. Store the celery root in a cool, dark place with high humidity.
Propagation methods for Apium graveolens L. var. rapaceum (Miller) Gaudin
Apium graveolens L. var. rapaceum, commonly known as celeriac, is a root vegetable in the Apiaceae family. It is typically propagated via seeds or by vegetative methods.
Seed propagation
Celeriac seeds are generally sown directly in the field, preferably in early spring when the temperature ranges between 10 and 20°C. Before sowing, the soil must be prepared by removing weeds and rocks, and it should be enriched with compost or manure.
Once sown, the seeds should be covered with a thin layer of soil. Generally, the seedlings emerge within two to three weeks. Once the seedlings have grown to a height of approximately 8cm, they can be thinned to allow for proper spacing (usually around 30cm) between the plants.
Vegetative propagation
Celeriac can also be propagated through vegetative methods, such as root division or through the use of leafy cuttings. The latter method is typically less popular and less successful than root division.
Root division involves the separation of celeriac roots into smaller sections, each containing at least one bud and a healthy root system. These smaller root sections are then planted in the soil, with the buds facing upwards and the soil tamped down to remove air pockets. The plant should be watered immediately after planting.
Celeriac plants grown through vegetative propagation tend to mature earlier and produce larger yields compared to those grown through seed propagation.
Disease and Pest Management for Apium graveolens L. var. rapaceum
Apium graveolens L. var. rapaceum, also known as celeriac, is susceptible to a number of diseases and pests that can adversely affect its growth and yield. Effective disease and pest management strategies are essential to ensure healthy and productive plants. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and suggestions for managing them.
Common Diseases
1. Fusarium Wilt: Fusarium wilt is a soil-borne fungal disease that causes yellowing, wilting, and death of the plant. The disease is typically spread through contaminated soil and infected plant debris. To manage Fusarium wilt, avoid planting celeriac in areas with a history of the disease and remove any infected plants immediately. Additionally, consider crop rotation and soil solarization to help prevent the spread of the disease.
2. Septoria Leaf Spot: Septoria leaf spot is caused by the fungus Septoria apiicola and results in small, circular spots on the leaves. The spots may be grey or brown with a yellow halo, and can coalesce and cause defoliation in severe cases. To manage Septoria leaf spot, remove infected plant debris, practice good sanitation, and consider using fungicides to help prevent the spread of the disease.
Common Pests
1. Aphids: Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that pierce the plant's leaves and extract sap, causing yellowing and stunted growth. To manage aphids, inspect the plants regularly and consider using insecticidal soaps or oils to control the infestation.
2. Slugs and Snails: Slugs and snails are common pests that can cause significant damage to celeriac plants. They typically feed on the leaves and stems of the plant, leaving behind irregular holes and blemishes. To manage these pests, consider using physical barriers such as copper tape or diatomaceous earth, or use bait stations to lure and trap them.
In conclusion, effective disease and pest management strategies are essential for growing healthy and productive Apium graveolens L. var. rapaceum. By following these suggestions, you can help prevent and manage common diseases and pests, and ensure the success of your crop.
