History
Celery root, commonly known as celeriac, is a root vegetable from the same family as celery. It is thought to have its roots in the Mediterranean basin.
Europeans began cultivating celeriac as a winning vegetable during the Middle Ages when it became popular as a food. In the 17th century, celeriac was used to flavor soups and stews in France. In the 18th century, celeriac was introduced to England, where it gained popularity as a vegetable for humans after initially being used as feed for livestock.
Facts About Celeriac
- Celeriac is known as the grandchild of celery.
- Celeriac has many names, most commonly “celery roots” but also goes by “turnip-rooted celery” and “knob celery.”
Health Benefits
Celeriac contains anti-inflammatory antioxidants, which fight against harmful free radicals, thereby protecting healthy cells. Celeriac is a good source of dietary fiber, which can help to improve digestive health and promote regular bowel movements. In addition, celeriac may also benefit heart health, and strengthen your bones.
Celeriac is a nutritional powerhouse, packed with vitamins (B6, K, and C). Celeriac is also a good source of antioxidants and important minerals, such as manganese, potassium, and phosphorus.
When to Plant Celeriac
Celeriac is a cool-season crop that prefers to grow in cooler temperatures. It is best to plant celeriac during the early spring or early fall. The ideal time to plant celeriac is from late March to early April or from late August to early September.
Celeriac grows best in well-drained, fertile soil that is enriched with organic matter. The ideal pH of the soil to grow celeriac is between 6.0 and 7.0, which is slightly acid to neutral.
Harvesting
Celeriac takes between 120 to 150 days from sowing to harvesting. Celeriac is typically harvested from late September through November or early December, depending on when it was planted.
A celeriac root is harvested when it is large enough for use, usually when it reaches a diameter of 7.62 to 10.16 centimeters (3-4 inches).
Companion Plants for Celeriac
The companion plants that are beneficial to grow alongside celeriac are beans, carrots, onions, and tomatoes.
Summary
Celeriac is a root vegetable from the same family as celery, which was first introduced to Europe in the Middle Ages. It has many names, including “celery roots” and “turnip-rooted celery”. It has anti-inflammatory antioxidants, dietary fiber, heart health, and strengthens bones. It is a cool-season crop that grows best in well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. It is harvested when it is large enough for use, usually when it reaches a diameter of 7.62 to 10.16 centimeters (3-4 inches). Companion plants for celeriac include beans, carrots, onions, and tomatoes.
