How to Grow Chinese Pink Celery

Chinese Pink Celery is a versatile and flavorful vegetable that can be grown in your garden, whether it’s a small plot, containers, or even indoors. In this article, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of growing Chinese Pink Celery from seed to harvest, along with tips on watering, fertilizing, and common pests and diseases. So let’s dive in and discover how to grow this delicious and nutritious vegetable!

Table of Contents

When to Start Chinese Pink Celery

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of growing Chinese Pink Celery, let’s talk about the best time to start your journey. Chinese Pink Celery is a cool-season crop, and it is best to start growing it in early spring or fall. The ideal soil temperature for sowing celery seeds is around 60°F (15°C) to 70°F (21°C).

If you are growing Chinese Pink Celery from transplants, they should be started indoors 10 to 12 weeks before the last frost date in your area.

Chinese Pink Celery, also known as Nan Ling celery, is a unique variety that stands out for its vibrant pink stems and flavorful leaves. This heirloom variety is not only visually appealing but also adds a delightful crunch and mild celery flavor to dishes.

When selecting a location to plant Chinese Pink Celery, choose a spot that receives full sun to partial shade. The soil should be well-draining and rich in organic matter to support the growth of this nutrient-hungry plant.

How to Grow Chinese Pink Celery From Seed

The first step in growing Chinese Pink Celery is to start from seeds. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Prepare the soil: Chinese Pink Celery thrives in well-drained, loamy soil. Amend the soil with organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure.
Start seeds indoors: Fill seed trays with a seed starting mix and sow the seeds shallowly, about 1/8 inch deep. Keep the soil moist and maintain a temperature of around 70°F (21°C). Seeds typically germinate within 14-21 days.
Transplant seedlings: Once the seedlings have developed their second set of true leaves, they are ready to be transplanted into individual pots or containers.

Chinese Pink Celery seedlings should be watered regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. When the seedlings reach about 4-6 inches in height, they are ready to be transplanted into the garden or larger containers.

Chinese Pink Celery, also known as Nan Ling Pink, is a unique variety of celery that is popular in Asian cuisine for its vibrant pink stems and delicate flavor. This heirloom variety is relatively easy to grow from seed, making it a rewarding choice for home gardeners looking to add a touch of color and flavor to their dishes.

When planting Chinese Pink Celery, it is important to space the plants about 8-10 inches apart to allow for proper growth and air circulation. This spacing will help prevent overcrowding and reduce the risk of disease. Additionally, Chinese Pink Celery benefits from a consistent supply of nutrients, so consider incorporating a balanced fertilizer into your gardening routine to support healthy growth.

How and When to Transplant Chinese Pink Celery

Transplanting Chinese Pink Celery is an essential step in its growth process. Here’s what you need to know:

Choose the right location: Chinese Pink Celery thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. It requires a minimum of 6-8 hours of sunlight per day.
Prepare the soil: Before transplanting, prepare the garden bed by clearing any weeds and loosening the soil. Amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure.
Transplant the seedlings: Dig holes slightly larger than the root ball of the seedlings. Space the plants 8-10 inches apart.
Water thoroughly: After transplanting, water the plants thoroughly to help them establish and reduce transplant shock.

Ensure that the soil is consistently moist throughout the growing season. Mulching around the plants can help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

How to Plant Chinese Pink Celery – Spacing and Patterns

Proper spacing and planting patterns are crucial for the healthy growth of Chinese Pink Celery. Here’s what you need to know:

Planting distance: Space the Chinese Pink Celery plants 8-10 inches apart in rows that are 12-18 inches apart.
Planting depth: Dig holes that are deep enough to accommodate the seedlings, ensuring that the crown is level with or slightly below the soil surface.

By following these spacing guidelines, you allow each plant to have enough space for robust growth and good air circulation, which helps prevent diseases.

How Long to Grow Chinese Pink Celery

The time required for Chinese Pink Celery to reach maturity depends on several factors such as weather conditions, variety, and cultural practices. In general, Chinese Pink Celery takes around 85-100 days from sowing to reach maturity.

Keep in mind that Chinese Pink Celery is a biennial plant, which means it goes through a two-year growth cycle. In the first year, it produces leaves and stalks, while in the second year, it bolts and flowers.

How to Water Chinese Pink Celery

Proper watering is crucial to ensure the healthy growth of Chinese Pink Celery. Here are some watering tips:

Consistent moisture: Chinese Pink Celery requires consistent moisture, and the soil should never be allowed to dry out completely.
Watering frequency: Water the plants deeply at least once a week, providing about 1-1.5 inches of water.
Avoid overhead watering: To prevent foliage diseases, it is best to water the plants at the base using a soaker hose or drip irrigation.

Keep an eye on the weather conditions and adjust the watering accordingly. During hot and dry spells, Chinese Pink Celery may require additional irrigation.

How to Fertilize Chinese Pink Celery

Fertilization is an essential part of Chinese Pink Celery care to ensure healthy growth and abundant harvest. Here’s what you need to know:

Soil preparation: Before planting, amend the soil with well-rotted compost or organic matter to provide a nutrient-rich growing environment.
Side-dressing: Once the Chinese Pink Celery plants are well-established, side-dress them with a balanced organic fertilizer, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
Avoid excessive nitrogen: Chinese Pink Celery requires a moderate amount of nitrogen, but excessive nitrogen can result in lush foliage growth and reduced flavor.

Regular feeding throughout the growing season will help promote healthy and vigorous plants, leading to better yields.

Sunlight Requirements for Chinese Pink Celery

Chinese Pink Celery is a sun-loving plant but can tolerate some shade. Here are its sunlight requirements:

Full sun: Chinese Pink Celery thrives when exposed to at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Partial shade: If you live in a hot climate, providing some shade during the hottest part of the day can help prevent the plants from wilting or bolting.

Ensure that your Chinese Pink Celery plants receive adequate sunlight for healthy growth and development.

Soil Requirements for Chinese Pink Celery

Chinese Pink Celery prefers well-draining, fertile soil. Here are some soil requirements for successful growth:

Soil type: Chinese Pink Celery grows best in loamy soil that is rich in organic matter.
pH level: The optimal soil pH for Chinese Pink Celery is around 6.0 to 6.8.
Soil moisture: The soil should be consistently moist but not waterlogged. Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot.

If your soil is heavy clay or sandy, amend it with organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure to improve its fertility and drainage.

How to Grow Chinese Pink Celery Outdoors

Growing Chinese Pink Celery outdoors is a rewarding experience. Here’s what you need to know:

Choose the right location: Select a sunny spot in your garden that receives at least 6-8 hours of sunlight per day.
Prepare the soil: Clear the area of weeds and amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure for improved fertility and moisture retention.
Planting: Follow the planting guidelines mentioned earlier for spacing and planting depth.
Mulch: Apply a layer of organic mulch around the plants to suppress weeds, conserve moisture, and regulate soil temperature.
Water and maintain: Water the plants regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist. Remove any weeds that compete for nutrients and space.

By following these steps, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of Chinese Pink Celery grown in your own outdoor garden.

How to Grow Chinese Pink Celery Indoors

If you don’t have access to an outdoor garden, you can still grow Chinese Pink Celery indoors. Here’s how:

Container selection: Choose a deep container with good drainage holes to accommodate the root system of the Chinese Pink Celery plants.
Potting mix: Fill the container with a well-draining potting mix enriched with organic matter.
Transplanting: Transplant the Chinese Pink Celery seedlings into the containers, ensuring that the crowns are level with or slightly below the soil surface.
Light requirements: Place the containers in a location that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. If natural sunlight is limited, supplement with artificial grow lights.
Water and humidity: Water the plants regularly, keeping the soil evenly moist. Celery prefers humidity, so consider placing a tray of water near the plants to increase the humidity level.
Fertilizing: Feed the indoor Chinese Pink Celery plants with a balanced organic fertilizer according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Growing Chinese Pink Celery indoors allows you to enjoy fresh celery year-round, even in limited space.

How to Grow Chinese Pink Celery In Containers and Pots

Chinese Pink Celery can be successfully grown in containers and pots. Here’s how:

Container selection: Choose a deep container or pot that has at least 12 inches of depth to accommodate the celery roots.
Potting mix: Use a well-draining potting mix enriched with compost or well-rotted manure to provide adequate nutrients.
Transplanting: Transplant the Chinese Pink Celery seedlings into the containers, ensuring that the crowns are level with or slightly below the soil surface.
Watering: Water the plants regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist. Containers tend to dry out faster, so monitor the moisture levels closely.
Sunlight requirements: Place the containers in a location that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. If needed, move the containers to follow the sun throughout the day.
Fertilizing: Regularly feed the Chinese Pink Celery plants with a balanced organic fertilizer, following the manufacturer’s instructions.

Container gardening allows you to grow Chinese Pink Celery even in limited space, such as patios, balconies, or rooftop gardens.

Chinese Pink Celery Companion Plants – What to Plant With & Not Plant With Chinese Pink Celery

Companion planting can help maximize the productivity of your Chinese Pink Celery garden while deterring pests and attracting beneficial insects. Here are some companion plants to consider:

Carrots: Planting carrots alongside Chinese Pink Celery can benefit both plants. The carrots help break up the soil for the celery while celery can repel carrot fly.
Onions: Onions can help deter pests that may attack the Chinese Pink Celery plants.
Cabbage family crops: Planting Chinese Pink Celery near cabbage family crops such as broccoli, cabbage, or cauliflower can help repel pests that commonly affect these plants.

On the other hand, it is best to avoid planting Chinese Pink Celery near crops such as corn and potatoes, as they can compete for nutrients and space.

Common Chinese Pink Celery Pests and Diseases

Just like any other vegetable, Chinese Pink Celery is susceptible to pests and diseases. Here are some common ones and how to manage them:

Slugs and snails: These pests can be controlled by handpicking, placing beer traps, or using organic slug pellets.
Aphids: Aphids can be washed off the plants with a strong jet of water or controlled with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
Leaf spot and blight diseases: To prevent these diseases, avoid overhead watering, provide adequate spacing between plants for good air circulation, and promptly remove and destroy infected plants.

Regularly inspect your Chinese Pink Celery plants for signs of pests or diseases and take appropriate measures to manage them promptly.

How & When to Harvest Chinese Pink Celery

Harvesting Chinese Pink Celery at the right time ensures optimal flavor and quality. Here’s what you need to know:

Stalks: Begin harvesting Chinese Pink Celery stalks when they reach a desired size, usually around 8-10 inches in length. Cut the stalks at the base, just above ground level.
Leaves: As you harvest the stalks, you can also snip off the outer leaves for immediate use. This helps stimulate further growth of the plant.

Regularly harvest Chinese Pink Celery to enjoy its fresh and crisp taste. Remember, homemade celery is far superior to the store-bought variety due to its flavor and nutritional content!

How to Store & Preserve Chinese Pink Celery

If you have an abundant harvest of Chinese Pink Celery, here are some tips on how to store and preserve it:

Refrigeration: Trim the leafy tops of the Chinese Pink Celery and store it in a plastic bag or wrap it in a damp paper towel. Place it in the vegetable crisper drawer of your refrigerator, where it can stay fresh for up to two weeks.
Freezing: Chinese Pink Celery can be blanched and frozen for longer storage. Wash and chop the stalks into small pieces, blanch them in boiling water for a few minutes, then plunge them into an ice bath. Drain the celery well and store in freezer-safe containers or bags.
Dehydrating: Another method of preserving Chinese Pink Celery is dehydrating. Slice the celery into thin pieces and dry them in a food dehydrator or an oven set to a low temperature. Once completely dry, store the dehydrated celery in an airtight container.

By following these storage and preservation methods, you can enjoy the flavors of Chinese Pink Celery long after the growing season ends.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions related to growing Chinese Pink Celery:

Q: Can Chinese Pink Celery be grown year-round?

A: Chinese Pink Celery is a cool-season crop and grows best in spring and fall. However, with proper care and indoor cultivation, you can enjoy Chinese Pink Celery year-round.

Q: How do I know when Chinese Pink Celery is ready to harvest?

A: Chinese Pink Celery stalks are ready to harvest when they are around 8-10 inches long. The inner stalks will be more tender and flavorful.

Q: How often should I water Chinese Pink Celery?

A: Chinese Pink Celery requires consistent moisture. Water the plants deeply at least once a week, providing about 1-1.5 inches of water. Adjust the watering frequency based on weather conditions.

Q: Can I grow Chinese Pink Celery in containers on my balcony?

A: Yes, Chinese Pink Celery can be grown in containers on a balcony, patio, or rooftop garden. Ensure that the container has sufficient depth and receives 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day.

Q: How can I deter pests from attacking my Chinese Pink Celery?

A: Companion planting with onions, carrots, and cabbage family crops can help deter pests. Regularly inspect your plants for signs of pests, and take appropriate measures such as handpicking or using organic pest control methods.

Now that you have all the knowledge and tips for growing Chinese Pink Celery, it’s time to get your hands dirty and start your own celery journey. Enjoy the wonderful flavors and nutritional benefits that Chinese Pink Celery brings to your plate!

Join the How to Grow Everything Community

Ready to transform your green thumb into a garden full of vibrant Chinese Pink Celery and more? Subscribe for free to How to Grow Everything and learn how to build the garden of your dreams! Receive personalized gardening advice tailored to your grow zone and experience level, along with the best gardening tips and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox. Join our family of garden enthusiasts and start cultivating your ideal garden today—100% free, no spam, just pure gardening gold.