Celery (Apium graveolens)

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; tolerate light shade in hot summer climates to prevent stalk bitterness

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Watering Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; avoid drying out completely to prevent stalk toughness

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Temperature Thrives in cool temperatures (15–20°C); tolerate light frost but avoid extreme heat above 28°C

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Leaf: Basal rosette of pinnately compound leaves with toothed leaflets; glossy green, aromatic when crushed
Flower: Small white umbels arranged in flat-topped clusters; tiny, star-shaped blooms
Stem: Thick, fleshy, crisp petioles (edible stalks) in cultivated varieties; fibrous in wild forms

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Watering

Keep soil evenly moist; apply mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds

Fertilization

Apply balanced compost or diluted liquid fertilizer every 2 weeks. Prioritize nitrogen-rich feeds to support stalk growth in early development

Eggshell powder topdressing：Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; mix into top 2 cm of soil to add calcium without raising soil pH

Pruning

Harvest outer stalks from the base to encourage continuous new growth
Remove yellowing or damaged lower leaves to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
Trim emerging flower stalks promptly to prolong edible stalk production in the first growing season

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Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic; no adverse effects reported with ingestion

Humans: No inherent toxicity; may cause mild allergic skin or oral reaction in sensitive individuals

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Culture: Symbolizes freshness and culinary versatility in Western cuisine

Usage: Edible stalks, leaves, and seeds used in salads, soups, and seasoning; wild forms used as forage