‘Mars’ Organic Celeriac Seeds

An organic variety, ‘Mars’ Organic Celeriac is grown as a stem vegetable. Celeriac is a variety of celery, also known as celery root, turnip-rooted celery, or knob celery, harvested for its big, bulbous hypocotyl, or stem (usually called a root), rather than its green stalks. It has a smooth flavor, similar to celery, which is best after a light frost. Once peeled, the smooth, white interior of the round, knobby “root” can be eaten raw or boiled, braised, steamed, stewed, or stir fried. Celeriac is high in fiber and packed with antioxidants. It’s a good source of vitamins B6, C, and K. It also contains manganese, phosphorus, and potassium.

A biennial to perennial, typically grown as an annual, ‘Mars’ Organic Celeriac is a member of the carrot family (Apiaceae). The upright plant forms a basal rosette of dark green leaves and shows less Septoria blight than most. Open pollinated, it produces seed that grows true to variety, ideal for seed saving.

Celeriac grows best in locations with 5 to 7 hours of full sun each day and loose, rich, well-draining soil having a neutral pH between 6.0 and 8.0. Consistent moisture is very important.

A cool-season, semi-hardy vegetable, one of the first to be planted in the garden, celeriac seed can be direct sown into the garden as soon as the soil is workable in early spring, after the last frost date. But it can also be started indoors about 10 weeks before transplanting, spring and fall. It needs cold temperatures to germinate and grow and can withstand light frost and temperatures in the 28° to 32°F range. It grows best with temperatures in the 60° to 75°F range. Mulching helps to moderate soil temperature and to maintain soil moisture. Row covers protect plants from excessive cold and heavy frosts.