Description There is no doubt that celery is a demanding vegetable to grow. At the same time it is a rewarding vegetable to grow for gardeners with skill, determination and a long growing season. Tall Utah has an early maturity (for celery) and is resistant to bolting under summer stress. Vigorous plants produce nicely flavoured, crisp stalks. Plants reach a mature height of 45 cm (16″). Stalks can be enjoyed young as well. How to Grow Start seed indoors 10-12 weeks before your typical last frost date. Germination occurs in 3 weeks at 21-24 C (70-75 F). After germination grow seedlings on under lights at a slightly cooler temperature of 16 C (60 F). Harden off and transplant to a sunny site in the garden in mid May to mid June. A fertile, well-drained soil with a pH of 6.5 to 7.0 is best. Set plants 15-20 cm (6-8″) apart in rows spaced 90 cm (36″) apart. Blanche the stalks by gradually earthing up the stems, beginning when they are roughly 30 cm (12″) high. Feed regularly with a balanced fertilizer. Keeping the soil evenly moist through the entire growing season is absolutely critical for proper stalk formation.
