When to plant Celeriac in the UK

Work the soil deeply and break it down to a fine tilth around early April to early May. Remove stones and any hard lumps, then mix in well-rotted compost. Avoid fresh manure, because it makes the roots fork.

Sow seeds thinly in shallow drills around mid-April to early May, 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.

Fit insect-proof mesh over the row straight after sowing, from early May. Seal the edges well so adult flies cannot get in and lay eggs near the roots.

When seedlings are large enough to handle, from early May to late May, thin them carefully to one plant every 35 cm. Water the row first so you disturb the roots as little as possible.

Lift roots from early November and keep harvesting through late January. Leave sound roots in the ground over winter if the soil drains well, then lift them as needed before they start to run down.