Chinese Pink Celery

Chinese Pink celery, also known as Pink Plume celery, is a variety of celery that has bright pink stalks. It is said to be a rare heirloom variety that was a popular staple in Asian cooking. It's not grown commercially, so you likely won't see it in your local stores. Chinese Pink celery grows to a height of about 24-30 inches and has feathery, bright green leaves. The stalks are thin and crisp, with a pinkish-red color that intensifies as they mature.

Chinese Pink celery is a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as dietary fiber and antioxidants. It is also low in calories and sodium, making it a healthy addition to any diet. It prefers a cool, moist environment and requires plenty of water and nutrients to thrive.

Days to Maturity: 90 Days

Seeds per pack: 2.84g

• Start seeds indoors: Chinese Pink celery can be started from seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the last expected frost. Sow the seeds in a good quality seed-starting mix and keep the soil moist and warm (around 70°F) until the seeds germinate, which can take up to 3 weeks.

• Transplant seedlings: Once the seedlings have developed their second set of leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots or a garden bed outside. Choose a location with well-draining soil and partial shade to protect the plants from direct sunlight.

• Provide proper care: Chinese Pink celery requires consistent moisture, so keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Fertilize the plants with a balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks, following the manufacturer's instructions. Provide plenty of mulch to help retain moisture in the soil.

• Support the plants: As Chinese Pink celery grows, it can become top-heavy and may require support to prevent the stalks from breaking. Use stakes or cages to provide support, especially in windy conditions.

• Harvest the celery: Chinese Pink celery is ready to harvest when the stalks are about 8-10 inches long and the leaves are bright green. Cut the stalks at the base of the plant using a sharp knife or scissors, being careful not to damage the neighboring stalks.