Overview:
Apium graveolens secalinum, commonly known as celery or leaf celery, is a green, leafy plant known for its culinary uses. It belongs to the family of Apiaceae and is closely related to carrots, parsley, and fennel. Celery is believed to have originated in the Mediterranean and Middle Eastern regions, where it was used as a medicinal herb for many centuries before its culinary uses were discovered.
Appearance:
Celery is a biennial plant that grows up to 1-2 feet tall. It has long, fibrous stems that are usually harvested for consuming. The leaves of the celery plant are bright green and arranged in a rosette fashion. The flowers are small, white or yellow in color, and grow in umbels. Celery seeds are small and brown, and have a strong, pungent flavor.
Common Names:
Celery is commonly known by different names in different parts of the world. In addition to the scientific name Apium graveolens secalinum, it is called leaf celery, Chinese celery, smallage, and wild celery.
Uses:
Celery is primarily cultivated for its edible stems and leaves, which are used in a variety of culinary applications. Celery is a popular ingredient in soups, stews, salads, and stir-fries. It is also eaten raw as a snack and used as a garnish in many dishes. In addition to its culinary uses, celery is believed to have several health benefits. It is a good source of vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin K, vitamin C, potassium, and folate. Celery seeds are used as a spice and are believed to have diuretic properties that help to reduce inflammation and regulate blood pressure.
Overall, celery is a versatile plant that has been used for thousands of years for both culinary and medicinal purposes. It is enjoyed all over the world for its unique taste and texture, as well as its numerous health benefits.Light Requirements
Apium graveolens secalinum, commonly known as celery or leaf celery, prefers full sun to partial shade. It requires at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily to grow properly. In areas with extremely hot summers, it may need some shade during the hottest part of the day to prevent overheating and wilting.
Temperature Requirements
Celery grows best in cool temperatures with daytime temperatures ranging from 60-70°F (15-21°C) and night temperatures around 50-60°F (10-15°C). It is a hardy plant that can tolerate light frosts and temperatures as low as 40°F (4°C). However, extreme heat causes bolting or the production of seedstalks instead of foliage, which makes the plant inedible.
Soil Requirements
Celery prefers well-drained and fertile soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be slightly acidic, around 6.0-6.5. The plant has a shallow root system, so the soil must be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. Mulching the soil around the plant helps retain soil moisture while also keeping the soil cool.
Cultivation Methods
Apium graveolens secalinum, also known as celery or leaf celery, is a biennial plant that is grown as an annual in most areas. It prefers cool temperatures and grows best in a moist, fertile soil that is well-drained. It does not tolerate drought well, so it is important to keep the soil constantly moist.
Celery is usually started from seeds indoors a few weeks before the last frost date, and then transplanted to the garden once the soil has warmed up. The seedlings should be kept well-watered and in a location with plenty of light. Once the seedlings have developed their second set of leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots to grow until it's time to move them outdoors.
When planting in the garden, celery should be spaced about 12 inches apart in rows that are about 3 feet apart. It is important to keep the soil around the plants moist, but not waterlogged, throughout the growing season.
Watering Needs
Celery plants require moist soil to grow well. The soil should be kept evenly moist, but not waterlogged throughout the growing season. Mulching around the plants can help to retain soil moisture and prevent water from evaporating from the soil too quickly. During particularly hot, dry periods, celery may require additional watering to keep the soil moist.
Fertilization
Celery is a heavy feeder and requires regular fertilization throughout the growing season. Before planting, work a slow-release fertilizer into the soil. Once the plants are established, feed them every two weeks with a balanced fertilizer that is high in nitrogen. Alternatively, you can use a liquid fertilizer to feed the plants more frequently.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for celery plants, but removing any yellow or brown leaves can help to keep the plant healthy. If the stalks begin to fall over, they can be tied together loosely to keep them upright. Harvesting celery by cutting the stalks at the base of the plant will also help to keep the plant looking tidy and prevent the stalks from breaking off.
Propagating Apium graveolens secalinum
Apium graveolens secalinum, commonly known as Celery Leaf or Cutting Celery, is a herbaceous biennial plant that belongs to the Apiaceae family. It is an easy plant to propagate and can be propagated in various ways.
Propagation through Seeds
The most common propagation method for Apium graveolens secalinum is through seeds. The seeds should be sown in the soil where the plant is supposed to grow. The soil should be moist and fertile. The seeds should be sown at a depth of about ¼ inch and spaced approximately one inch apart. The ideal temperature for seed germination is between 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
Once the seeds have germinated, thin the seedlings to around 6-8 inches apart to give them enough space to grow. This spacing also helps increase air circulation between the plants, reducing the chances of disease and pests infestation. Make sure to keep the soil moist and fertilize the plants every two weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
Propagation through Cuttings
Propagation through cuttings is an easy and convenient way to propagate Apium graveolens secalinum. Rather than using seeds, you can cut a leaf stem, and place it in a glass of water. The water in the glass should be changed regularly, so it stays fresh. Once the roots have grown, and the cutting has developed, it can be transplanted into the soil. Cuttings produce plants faster than seeds as they already have a developed root system.
Propagation through Division
Another method of propagation is through division. This method means dividing mature plants into different plants and putting them in separate containers. This method is best performed in the fall when the plant has entered its dormant stage. Carefully dig it up and separate the roots, making sure each plant has several roots attached. The new plants should be replanted, watered, and nurtured until they grow to their full potential.
Regardless of the method you choose to propagate Apium graveolens secalinum, with proper care and attention, you can enjoy healthy and flavorful celery leaves that are perfect for cooking and garnishing.
Disease and Pest Management for Apium graveolens secalinum
Apium graveolens secalinum, commonly known as celery or leaf celery, is a popular annual or biennial plant grown for its edible stalks, leaves, and seeds. However, like many other plants, it is susceptible to various diseases and pests that can affect its growth, yield, and overall health. Here are some common disease and pest management techniques for Apium graveolens secalinum:
Diseases
Fungal Diseases: Celery plants are susceptible to various fungal diseases, including leaf spot, stem blight, and powdery mildew. These diseases can cause leaf yellowing, wilting, browning, and necrosis, which can severely impact the overall health and yield of the plant. To manage these diseases, it's essential to practice good cultural practices, such as using clean planting materials, proper irrigation, and proper drainage. Additionally, applying fungicides can help control these diseases.
Viral Diseases: Celery plants can also be infected with various viral diseases, such as celery mosaic virus and leaf roll virus. These viruses can cause stunted growth, leaf distortion, and mottling of the leaves, which can reduce the yield and quality of the plant. Unfortunately, there are no chemical controls for viral diseases, and it's best to prevent them by using disease-free planting materials and practicing good sanitation measures.
Pests
Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of the celery plant, causing leaf curling, stunted growth, and yellowing. To manage aphids, you can use insecticidal soap, neem oil, or beneficial insects such as ladybugs and lacewings.
Celery Leaf Tier: The celery leaf tier is a small moth that lays its eggs on the celery leaves. The larvae then feed on the leaves, causing extensive damage. To manage celery leaf tiers, you can handpick the larvae, apply Bacillus thuringiensis, or use row covers to prevent the moths from laying eggs on the plants.
Celery Stalk Borer: The celery stalk borer is a caterpillar that burrows into the celery stalk, causing the plant to wilt and die. To prevent celery stalk borers, you can use row covers or till the soil in fall to expose the pupae to predators. Additionally, if you notice any infested stalks, remove them and destroy them.
Slugs and Snails: Slugs and snails can cause feeding damage to the leaves and stalks of the celery plant, leading to reduced quality and yield. To manage slugs and snails, you can use copper barriers, iron phosphate baits, or handpick them in the early morning or evening when they are most active.
By being vigilant and taking proactive measures to manage disease and pest problems, you can ensure that your Apium graveolens secalinum plants stay healthy, vigorous, and productive.
