As a horticulturist with years of experience in cultivating a variety of vegetables, I've found that knowing when to pick celery is a crucial skill for gardeners and farmers alike. Celery, *Apium graveolens*, is a biennial herb known for its crunchy, green stalks that are often used in soups, salads, and as a garnish. The timing and method of harvesting can significantly impact the quality and flavor of the celery you'll be enjoying. Here's a detailed guide on how to determine the right time to harvest your celery and how to do it properly.
Step 1: Assessing the Maturity
The first step in harvesting celery is to determine its maturity. Celery is typically ready to harvest when the stalks have reached a height of about 8 inches. This is a general guideline, and the actual height can vary depending on the specific variety and growing conditions. The stalks should be firm and crisp, with a bright green color that indicates they are full of chlorophyll and have been receiving ample sunlight.

Step 2: Checking the Weather
Weather plays a significant role in the harvesting process. Celery prefers cool temperatures and can become pithy or taste bitter if exposed to high heat. It's best to harvest in the morning when temperatures are cooler, which also helps to minimize wilting.

Step 3: Observing the Color and Texture
The color of the stalks should be a vibrant green, and the texture should be crisp. If the stalks are yellowing or becoming soft, it's a sign that they are past their prime and should be harvested immediately to prevent further degradation in quality.

Step 4: Harvesting from the Outside In
When you're ready to harvest, it's important to do so from the outside in. This means starting with the outermost stalks and working your way towards the center. This method helps to prevent damage to the younger, inner stalks and allows them to continue growing.

Step 5: Cutting the Stalks
Use a sharp knife to cut the stalks at the base, close to the soil. Cutting at an angle can help to minimize damage to the remaining plant. Be careful not to cut too deeply and damage the roots or the crown of the plant.

Step 6: Storing Celery Properly
After harvesting, it's essential to store the celery correctly to maintain its freshness. Celery should be kept in a cool, humid environment. Wrapping the stalks in a damp cloth and storing them in the refrigerator can help to prolong their shelf life.

Step 7: Extending the Harvest Season
If you want to extend the harvest season, you can build up the soil around the celery to protect it from frost and maintain an ideal temperature. This can keep the celery in the garden for up to a month longer.

Step 8: Regrowing Celery
Celery is a biennial, which means it has a two-year life cycle. After the first year, it will start to produce flowers and seeds. If you allow the plant to flower, it will produce seeds that can be collected and sown for the next season's crop.

In conclusion, harvesting celery is a straightforward process that requires attention to detail and a bit of patience. By following these steps, you can ensure that you're picking your celery at the optimal time, resulting in the best possible taste and texture for your culinary creations.

read more >>

The parts of celery that are harvested are mainly the stalks, which will be above ground. Harvest stalks from the outside in. You may begin harvesting when stalks are about 8 inches tall. Celery can be kept in the garden for up to a month if soil is built up around it to maintain an ideal temperature.read more >>