A pH of 5.2-6.5 is required for good production. Fertile, well drained mineral soils are also suitable where sufficient water can be provided throughout the growing season. Sandy soils are not recommended. Use only treated seed for transplant production. Celery is not commonly direct seeded.
Some companies provide vigorized or primed seed that germinates uniformly and rapidly.
Use only highest quality sized and density graded seed. Pelleted, vigorized seed and precision seeding should be used for transplant production. Plug transplants are available from specialized transplant producers when prearranged by contract. For production of on-farm greenhouse transplants, broadcast seed into a suitable soil mix or sterilized soil, transplant to other flats when seedlings are 1 to 2 inches tall. Move plants to the field when seedlings are 4 to 5 inches tall and temperatures are above 55 F. Larger transplants are more susceptible to bolting, to transplant shock, and are later maturing.