Stalk Celery
Conquistador Celery is a widely adaptable, open-pollinated variety that brings reliable performance to any garden. Ready to harvest in 80 days from transplants, this conventional celery thrives in fertile, consistently moist soil and produces the crisp, flavorful stalks that make homegrown celery so rewarding. Its bush growth habit and straightforward cultivation make it an excellent choice for gardeners seeking a dependable celery variety without the fuss of hybrids.
6-8 inches apart
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High
3-11
?in H x ?in W
Biennial
High
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What sets Conquistador apart is its proven adaptability across different growing conditions and its clean, NOP-compliant seed pellet coating for reliable germination. The 80-day timeline from transplant to harvest fits neatly into most growing seasons, and its bush form means it won't sprawl uncontrollably in the garden bed. Johnny's Selected Seeds, the variety's primary source, emphasizes its conventional genetics and straightforward care needs, this is celery for growers who want consistent results without surprises.
Conquistador Celery is grown for its edible stalks, which are harvested and used fresh in salads, eaten raw as a crunchy snack, or incorporated into soups, stews, and cooked dishes. The stalks retain their crisp texture when properly grown and stored, making them suitable for both raw and cooked applications.
Sow seeds indoors in early March, approximately 10 to 12 weeks before your planned transplant date. Sow 6 seeds per inch at a depth of 1/8 inch in 20-row open flats or plug trays, keeping the soil moist. Maintain temperatures between 70 and 75°F (21 to 24°C) for germination, which typically occurs within 2 to 3 weeks. Once seedlings emerge, reduce temperature to the 60 to 70°F (16 to 21°C) range. When seedlings develop their first 2 true leaves, transplant them into 72-cell plug trays to give them room for stronger root development before moving outdoors.
Transplant outdoors once weather is warm and settled, spacing plants 6 to 8 inches apart in rows 24 to 36 inches apart. Keep the soil consistently moist after transplanting to help plants establish and support steady growth through the 80-day harvest window.
Harvest Conquistador Celery approximately 80 days after transplanting outdoors, when stalks have reached full size and show the characteristic pale green to white color of mature celery. Cut stalks at the base with a sharp knife, or pull entire plants if you prefer. For a continuous harvest, you can remove outer stalks as needed while leaving the inner growth to continue developing.
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