Celeriacs in Barr's Cottage
Apium graveolens var. rapaceum
A slow-growing root crop for deep, fertile, moisture-retentive soil. In the UK, sow directly outdoors in spring, keep plants evenly watered, and leave the roots in the ground for later lifting through winter where the soil stays workable.
Growing Guide
Step-by-step instructions for growing Celeriac
Planting Calendar
Prepare the Bed
21 Mar – 18 AprWork the soil deeply and break it down to a fine tilth around 21st March - 18th April. Remove stones and any hard lumps, then mix in well-rotted compost. Avoid fresh manure, because it makes the roots fork.
Sow Seeds
4 Apr – 18 AprSow seeds thinly in shallow drills around 4th April - 18th April, then cover lightly and water the row well. Keep the soil moist while they germinate, and sow only when it has warmed enough for steady growth.
Protect from Root Fly
18 Apr – 18 AprFit insect-proof mesh over the row straight after sowing, from 18th April. Seal the edges well so adult flies cannot get in and lay eggs near the roots.
Thin Seedlings
2 May – 9 MayWhen seedlings are large enough to handle, from 2nd May to 9th May, thin them carefully to one plant every . Water the row first so you disturb the roots as little as possible.
Harvest Roots
29 Sept – 10 OctLift roots from 29th September and keep harvesting through 10th October. Leave sound roots in the ground over winter if the soil drains well, then lift them as needed before they start to run down.
Companion Plants
Tap a plant to see why it works (or doesn't) with Celeriac.
Good companions
Plants to avoid
Why companion planting matters
Companion planting can deter pests, improve pollination, and make better use of space. Some plants confuse pests or attract beneficial insects; others improve soil or offer shade to neighbours that need it.
Suggested Varieties
Popular varieties of Celeriac to consider
Monarch
A reliable selection with smooth, round roots and good standing power in the ground.
Asterix
Produces firm roots with a neat shape and steady performance in the vegetable patch.
Giant Prague
A long-established type that gives large, usable roots and is widely grown in Britain.
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