How to grow Celery in the UK
Apium graveolens
Celery (Apium graveolens) is a vegetable that grows well in UK gardens. Thirsty crop — needs constantly damp soil. Self-blanching varieties skip the earthing-up faff. This guide covers when and how to sow Celery, the soil and position it likes, watering and feeding, companion planting, and when to harvest.
When to sow & grow Celery
Sowing and harvest window through the year (UK):
Jan | Feb | Mar Sow | Apr | May | Jun Plant | Jul | Aug Harvest | Sep Harvest | Oct Harvest | Nov Harvest | Dec |
Soil, position & care
- Soil
- Rich, moisture-retentive soil
- Soil pH
- 6.5–7.0
- Position
- Open, sunny site
- Sowing depth
- Surface (needs light)
- Spacing
- 25 cm apart
- Sowing
- Sow indoors Mar–Apr; self-blanching types grown in blocks
- Growing
- Never let it dry out — thirsty; feed regularly
- Harvest & upkeep
- Harvest from late summer
- Watch for
- Slugs, celery leaf miner, celery fly
Companion planting for Celery
Grows well with:
Add Celery to your free 12-month plan and get watering & sowing reminders — no sign-up needed.
Celery FAQs
When should I sow Celery in the UK?
In the UK, sow Celery in March. Sowing across these months gives the plant the right soil temperature and day length to establish well.
What grows well with Celery?
Celery grows well alongside Broccoli, Brussels Sprout, Cabbage, Cauliflower, Dwarf French Bean, Kale. Good companions can deter pests, attract pollinators or make better use of space.
How much sun does Celery need?
Celery prefers partial sun (3–6 hrs).
When is Celery ready to harvest?
Celery is typically ready to harvest in August, September, October, November in the UK.
Is Celery easy to grow?
Moderate. Thirsty crop — needs constantly damp soil. Self-blanching varieties skip the earthing-up faff.