Celery and Celeriac

Celery and Celeriac otank

Introduction

Celery (Apium graveolens var. dulce) is a long-season crop that grows best under cool, consistent conditions (60-75°F). Deep, loamy, fertile soils with ample and uniform soil moisture is ideal for celery.  Muck soils are also used for celery production.  Even though most of the celery root system is within the top 6" of soil, many roots penetrate as deep as 2 feet; thus, heavy clay soils are unsuitable for celery culture.  Hardpans should be avoided or disrupted before planting to allow for adequate drainage.

Celeriac (Apium graveolens var. rapaceum), also called celery root, is a smaller plant that looks like celery, but that is grown for its swollen tuberous base, which has a celery-like flavor. The petioles, or stalks, are less vigorous than those of celery and are not palatable. Celeriac can be used much like any root vegetable: roasted, in stews and soups, or eaten fresh in salads when grated or thinly sliced. The plant is ready for harvest about 100-110 days from seed or 80-90 days from transplanting. Celeriac may be blanched by covering with soil a few weeks prior to harvest, although plants with crowns sitting higher on the ground will have fewer roots to trim. Cultural requirements are similar to celery. 

Types and Varieties  

Type Variety
Celery

Balada (F)

Command (F)

Hudson (F)

Kelvin

Merengo (F)

Tall Utah 52/70R Improved (F)

Tango

TZ 6200 (F)

Victoria
Celeriac

Balena (F)

Brilliant (F)

Cisko RZ

Diamant (F)

Mars

Rowena
Resistant or tolerant to: F - Fusarium Yellows

Soil Fertility

Celery and celeriac are heavy feeders and require adequate fertility to produce a quality crop. Apply lime according to soil test to maintain soil pH at 6.0-6.8. Use a liquid starter fertilizer at transplanting, especially with cool soil conditions. Use a high phosphorus starter fertilizer mixed at a rate of 3 lb/50 gals of water. Apply 8 fl oz (1 cup) per transplant. Sidedress 40 lb N/ac 3-4 weeks after transplanting. On light soils, a second sidedressing may be necessary. The second sidedressing application of nitrogen can be reduced or eliminated if legume biomass was incorporated ahead of planting, or if manure was applied  (see Table 1 and Table 7). 

Celery is very susceptible to magnesium and calcium deficiencies.  Interveinal yellowing of older leaves is a good indication of magnesium deficiency. Magnesium requirements can be partially met by using dolomitic (high magnesium) limestone. Any further need of magnesium can be met by spraying or fertigating the plants with Epsom salts (magnesium sulfate) at 8 lb/ac per week until green color is restored. Calcium deficiency can result in a physiological disorder known as blackheart (equivalent to tipburn in other crops), where the growing tips of the heart die and turn black. However, this is typically a result of inconsistent water supply rather than inadequate soil calcium. Provide a steady water supply to maintain even plant growth and calcium uptake, and provide foliar applications of calcium nitrate or calcium chloride during prolonged dry periods. High soil potassium can result in decreased magnesium and calcium uptake; maintain high levels of these nutrients relative to potassium to facilitate their uptake.

Boron, manganese, and copper are also critical in the growth and development of celery. Plants grown on organic soils with low levels of boron and high levels of potassium often have brown, cross-checked cracks and russeting on the inside of the petiole (“brown checking”). Add boron to fertilizer at planting and provide foliar applications during dry periods. Tissue analysis is the best method of determining the sufficiency of these elements.

PLANT NUTRIENT RECOMMENDATION ACCORDING TO SOIL TEST RESULTS FOR CELERY AND CELERIAC
SOIL TEST RESULTS NITROGEN (N)* LBS PER ACRE PHOSPHORUS (P) LBS P2O5 PER ACRE POTASSIUM (K) LBS K2O PER ACRE
VERY LOW LOW OPTIMUM ABOVE OPTIMUM VERY LOW LOW OPTIMUM ABOVE OPTIMUM
Broadcast and Incorporate 100 180 120 30-60 0 240 180 45-90 0
Sidedress 3-4 weeks after setting 40 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Sidedress 7-8 weeks after setting 40 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
TOTAL RECOMMENDED 180 180 120 30-60 0 240 180 45-90 0

Planting

Celery should be seeded 10-12 weeks before transplanting into the field. This is often done in open flats in order to maximize heating mat space. Seedlings are transplanted into cell trays once they have 2-3 true leaves. Keep greenhouse temperatures above 55ºF to prevent bolting and ensure continuous development. Ideal temperatures for germinating celery are 70-75ºF, and temperatures can be lowered to 65-70ºF thereafter. Heating mats can be used to augment soil temperature if necessary. Seeds may become dormant if temperatures exceed 80ºF. Do not lower temperature to harden off plants. Pelletized seed is generally used because of the small size of raw seed. Mature seed and ample moisture are critical for germination. Use two- or three-year old seed that has all matured and maintain planting media near field capacity. Priming seed improves germination. One ounce of seed produces about 15,000 plants.  Use 2-4 oz to produce enough plants for one acre (20,000-58,000 plants). 

Transplant to the field in June when the risk of frost is past. Although this crop will withstand light frosts, bolting (premature flowering) will occur if plants are exposed to temperatures below 55ºF for more than 7 days, depending on variety.  Plants that have begun to bolt will often have petiole splits at harvest, necessitating more trimming. Space rows 18-36" apart and 6-12" between plants in rows (100-200 plants per 100 feet of row).  Double rows on plastic-lined beds are common.  Flat culture is used on muck soils.  

Celeriac seedling production and transplanting is similar to that of celery. Celeriac, however, tends to be more sensitive to the warm temperatures under plastic mulch so bare ground or white plastic mulch may improve the crop compared to black plastic mulch.

Field Culture

Celery and celeriac are long-season crops that grow best under cool conditions (60-75°F) with an ample and uniform supply of water. It may be necessary to irrigate when transplanting and once or twice each week thereafter. Drip irrigation is recommended to mitigate the spread of pathogens. Avoid working fields when plants are wet.

Harvest and Storage

To harvest, cut the whole celery plant at the soil level. Older, stringy, or cracked outer petioles may need to be removed to provide a fresh tender crop. Celery is commonly topped at 14" for retail and wholesale markets but healthy tops may be appealing to some direct market customers. If marketing without plastic sleeves, rubber-banding petioles at three-quarters height can improve appearance. Freshly harvested celery may have a bitter flavor, which can be improved by storing at 32-34°F for a few days. Chilling injury can result if the storage temperature falls below 32°F. If storing for longer than 1-2 weeks, keep plants upright so they maintain straight petioles. Celery typically holds in the field only 1-2 weeks depending on variety and environmental conditions. Plants left in the field beyond their peak will continue to mature and deteriorate in quality, becoming pithy, cracked, and developing an off-flavor. In storage, celery imparts its flavor to other crops.

Celeriac holds fairly well in the field, although timely harvest may prevent development of internal hollowing and rot in wet conditions. Frost will improve flavor of celeriac. It is harvested and trimmed of roots and stalks when tubers reach 3-4" in diameter. Celeriac may be stored for 3-6 months if kept at 32-34°F and 95% relative humidity, but internal quality over long storage periods is affected by both variety and exposure to disease before harvest. 

Celery and Celeriac Disease Control

Celery and Celeriac Disease Control otank

NOTES: For the disease control products listed below, one product trade name and formulation is provided for each active ingredient (common name) as an example of rates, preharvest interval (PHI), restricted entry interval (REI), and special instructions. In many cases, there are other products available with the same active ingredient. Please see Table 26 and Fungicides and Bactericides Alphabetical Listing by Trade Name for more information on products with the same active ingredients.

The symbol OG   indicates a product is listed by the Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI) as approved for use in organic production. See Organic Certification section for more details.

Anthracnose Leaf Curl (Colletotrichum fioriniae and C. nymphaeae)

Celery anthracnose caused by Colletotrichum fioriniae and C. nymphaeae (formerly C. acutatum). C. fioriniae also causes bitter rot in apples while C. nymphaeae  causes anthracnose of strawberries and garlic scapes. Symptoms on celery include curled leaves, occasional discoloration of leaf margins, twisted petioles, and lesions on petioles. Leaves remain green but often appear fan-like and curl downward.  Leaf curl is often the most prominent symptom observed and can resemble injury from growth regulator type (e.g. 2,4-D) herbicides. In advanced stages, the disease can resemble blackheart, the physiological disorder caused by low calcium assimilation. Celery leaf curl thrives under warm, wet conditions. Rapid growth occurs when temperatures are 77-86°F, with substantially more disease development at 86ºF. Temperatures as cool as 60°F will support fungal growth and spread, but field progression will be slow. This disease may be seedborne. Start with clean seed, flats, and growing media. Plant tolerant varieties. Avoid planting in fields with a history of strawberry or garlic anthracnose. Scout plants twice a week for symptoms; remove and destroy affected plants. Manage weeds, several common species harbor celery anthracnose without clearly expressing symptoms. Remove crop debris after harvest and/or plowing crop residue. A 3 to 4 year crop rotation with non-host plants should be followed. Avoid working the fields when the plants are wet, work in fields with a history of the disease last, and power wash equipment between fields. Research has shown that the strobilurin fungicides are most effective; however, be careful to rotate as resistance can develop quickly in this group.

  • azoxystrobin (Quadris): 6.0 to 15.5 fl oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Group 11. Do not apply more than one application before alternating with a non-Group 11 fungicide.
  • flutriafol (Rhyme): 5.0 to 7.0 fl oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Group 3. Apply preventatively when conditions are favorable for disease development.
  • pyraclostrobin (Cabrio EG): 12-16 oz /A; PHI 0d, REI 12h , Group 11. Do not apply more than one application before alternating with a non-Group 11 fungicide. Apply no more than 64 oz per year.
  • pyraclostrobin plus boscalid (Pristine): 10.0 to 15.0 oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Groups 11 & 7. Maximum of 2 applications per year.
  • pyraclostrobin plus fluxapyroxad (Merivon Xemium): 4.0 to 11.0 fl oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Groups 11 & 7. Maximum of 3 applications per year.

Leaf Blight (Cercospora apii (Early Blight) and Septoria apicola (Late Blight))

The primary symptom of early blight (Cercospora apii) is the occurrence of small yellow spots that are visible from both sides of the leaf. These spots may develop into larger lesions that become papery and often tear. Gray, fuzzy fungi may be visible in well-developed lesions. Favorable temperatures for early blight range from 60-86ºF. This pathogen can be seedborne, can survive on celery crop residue, and spores can spread via wind and water splashing.

Small, yellow, circular spots on leaves are also symptoms of late blight (Septoria apicola) in celery, which has similar symptoms to early blight in celery overall. One difference is that the small, round, and dark reproductive bodies of late blight, called pycnidia, can be seen in the center of lesions. This pathogen develops when temperatures are greater than 55ºF, and particularly in wet conditions when temperatures exceed 70ºF.

Use certified, disease-free seed or treat seed with hot water or fungicides. Practice careful sanitation in transplant greenhouses or rotate ground seedbeds. Irrigate early in the day to allow foliage to dry quickly. Use wider plant spacing and/or raised beds to improve air circulation. Plant resistant or tolerant varieties where available. Apply fungicides based upon a disease forecasting system.

  • azoxystrobin (Quadris F): 6.0 to 9.0 fl oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Group 11. Do not apply more than one application before alternating with a non-Group 11 fungicide.
  • azoxystrobin plus chlorothalonil (Quadris Opti): 2.4 to 3.7 pt/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Groups 11 & M05. See label for tank mix precautions.  
  • azoxystrobin plus propiconazole (Quilt Xcel): 14.0 fl oz/A; PHI 14d, REI 12h, Groups 11 & 3. 
  • bacillus amyloliquefaciens F727 (StargusOG): 2.0 to 4.0 qt/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Group BM02. See label for specific instructions.
  • chlorothalonil (Bravo Weather Stik): 2.0 to 3.0 pt/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Group M05.
  • copper hydroxide (Kocide 3000OG): 0.75 to 1.5 lb/A; PHI 0d, REI 48h, Group M01. Do not apply in a spray solution having a pH of less than 6.5 or tank mix with Aliette.
  • cyprodinil plus fludioxonil (Switch 62.5 WG): 11.0 to 14.0 fl oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Groups 9 & 12.
  • fluxapyroxad plus pyraclostrobin (Merivon): 4.0 to 11.0 fl oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Groups 7 & 11.
  • penthiopyrad (Fontelis): 14.0 to 24.0 oz/A; PHI 3d, REI 12h, Group 7.
  • propiconazole (Tilt): 4.0 fl oz/A; PHI 14d, REI 24h, Group 3.
  • pyraclostrobin plus boscalid (Pristine): 10.0 to 15.0 oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Groups 7 & 11. Maximum 2 applications per year. 
  • pydiflumetofen plus fludioxonil (Miravis Prime): 9.2 to 13.4 fl oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Groups 7 & 12. 
  • trifloxystrobin (Flint): 2.0 to 3.0 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Group 11. Do not make more than one application before alternating with a non-Group 11 fungicide.

Fusarium Yellows (Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. apii)

Fusarium yellows causes yellowing of outer leaves, stunting, and eventually death.  This pathogen spreads through plants’ vasculature, and infection may be spotty within fields as symptoms are commensurate with the degree of infection.  While this pathogen only infects celery, its spores can remain in soil almost indefinitely, surviving on celery crop residues, non-host crops, and many weed species.  Once a field is infected, only resistant varieties can be grown.  Rotating an infected field to onion or lettuce production for two years, before the pathogen becomes seriously problematic, is recommended to allow for spore decline.  Good equipment and worker sanitation can reduce spread.  Source resistant varieties and disease-free transplants.  As with other fungal pathogens, avoid working fields when wet.

Basal Stalk Rot (Rhizoctonia solani)

Rhizoctinia in celery is sometimes called crater rot, or simply stalk rot. This pathogen causes symptoms on petioles when they are in contact with the soil. Symptoms include reddish brown lesions on either side of the petiole, and can become sunken. This pathogen is soilborne and infects many plants. It is favored by warm, humid/wet conditions, and can survive in soil as sclerotia for a long time.

A 2-year rotation is can prevent buildup of disease-causing organisms.  Avoid crops such as alfalfa and legume cover crops which can increase disease risk.  Avoid cultivating late in the season. Maintain storage conditions at 50°F.

  • azoxystrobin (Quadris):  0.4 to 0.8 fl oz/1,000 row feet; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Group 11 (see label for clarification). Apply in a 7" band in-furrow or shortly after emergence.  After emergence, direct application to stem.
  • azoxystrobin plus chlorothalonil (Quadris Opti): 2.4 to 3.7 pt/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Groups 11 & M5. See label for tank mix precautions.  
  • Bacillus amyloliquefaciens F727 (StargusOG): 1.0 to 4.0 qt/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Group BM02. Apply preventatively in a minimum of 50.0 gallons/A. 
  • chlorothalonil (Bravo Weather Stik): 2.0 to 3.0 pt/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Group M05.
  • polyoxin D (OSO 5%SCOG): 6.5 to 13.0 fl oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Group 19.

Pink Rot (Sclerotinia sclerotiorum)

Pink rot in celery is caused by the same pathogen that causes white mold  in beans and peas. This pathogen can infect celery at any developmental stage, but is most commonly seen near harvest. The most characteristic symptoms are lesions on the lower portion of petioles that are initially brown and then turn water-logged, slimy, and pink. Lesions can contain white mycelia and/or hardened black sclerotia. Severely infected plants may totally collapse. Infections can go unnoticed, especially on inner petioles. Symtpoms can also appear during storage. Do not plant seed contaminated with sclerotia or plant into severely infested fields. Irrigate in the morning or with subsurface drip systems to promote drier soil. Rotate with non-hosts. Soil sterilization with chemicals, heat, or steam can reduce sclerotia in the soil.

  • Bacillus amyloliquefaciens F727 (StargusOG): 1.0 to 4.0 qt/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Group BM02. Apply preventatively in a minimum of 50.0 gallons of water/A.
  • boscalid (Endura): 8.0 to 9.0 oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Group 7.
  • chlorothalonil (Bravo Weather Stik): 3.0 pt/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Group M05. For disease suppression.
  • Coniothyrium minitans (Contans WGOG): 1.0 to 4.0 lb/A in 20.0-50.0 gal water; REI 4h, Group BM02. Spray on soil surface and incorporate into top 2" soil. Apply in fall or 3-4 months prior to planting.
  • cyprodonil plus fludioxonil (Switch 62.5 WG): 11.0 to14.0 oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Groups 9 & 12. Make first application at thinning and once more two weeks later.
  • pyraclostrobin plus boscalid (Pristine): 25.0 oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Groups 7 & 11. Maximum 2 applications per year. 
  • Ulocladium oudemansii (BotryStopOG): 2.0 to 4.0 lbs/A; REI 4h, Group BM02. Begin application when conditions are conducive to disease development.
Disease Control

Celery and Celeriac Insect Control

Celery and Celeriac Insect Control otank

NOTES: For the insecticides listed below, one product trade name and formulation is provided for each active ingredient (AI) as an example of rates, preharvest interval (PHI), restricted entry interval (REI), and special instructions. In many cases, there are other products available with the same AI. Please see Table 27 and Insecticides Alphabetical Listing by Trade Name for more information on these insecticides.

The designation (Bee: L, M, or H) indicates a bee toxicity rating of low, moderate, or high. See the Protecting Honeybees and Native Pollinators section for more details.

The symbol * indicates a product is a restricted use pesticide. See Pesticide Safety and Use for more details.

The symbol OG   indicates a product is listed by the Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI) as approved for use in organic production. See Organic Certification section for more details.

Aphids

See Pepper section for more information about green peach aphid.

  • acephate (Orthene 97): 0.5 to 1 lb/A; PHI 21d, REI 24h, Bee: H, Group 1B. Green pech aphid only. Tops must be removed before use; do not use tops for food or feed. Celery only.
  •  
  • acetamiprid (Assail 30SG): 2 to 4 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4A. Celery only.
  • afidopyropen (Versys): 1.5 fl oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 12 h, Bee: L, Group 9D. Celery only. 
  • alpha-cypermethrin (Fastac* EC): 3.2 to 3.8 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
  • Chromobacterium subtsugae strain PRAA4-1 (GrandevoOG): 2 to 3 lb/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: M. Group UN.
  • cyantraniliprole (Exirel): 13.5 to 20.5 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 28. Cotton and green peach only for celeriac. 
  • cyantraniliprole (Verimark): 6.75 to 13.5 oz/A at planting, 6.75-10 oz/A chemigation; PHI 1d chemigation, REI 4h, Bee: H, Group 28. For control of green peach and suppression of potato aphid only. Celery only.
  • dinotefuran (Venom): 1 to 3 oz/A foliar or 5 to 7.5 oz/A soil; PHI 7d foliar, 21d soil, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4A. Suppression of green peach and potato aphids. Soil application may be as a band during bedding, in-furrow at seeding, transplant or post-seeding drench, sidedress, or through drip. Celery only.
  • flonicamid (Beleaf 50SG): 2 to 2.8 oz/A; PHI 0d celery, 3d celeriac, REI 12, Bee: L, Group 9C. 
  • flupyradifurone (Sivanto): 7 to 14 oz/A other aphids, 10.5 to 14 oz/A green peach aphid; PHI 1d, REI 4h, Bee: L, Group 4D.
  • imidacloprid (Admire Pro): 4.4 to 10.5 oz/A soil; 1.2 oz/A foliar celeriac; PHI 45d soil, 7d foliar, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4A. Foliar applications allowed for celeriac only.
  • insecticidal soap (M-PedeOG): 1.25 to 2.5 oz/gal water; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: L. Spray to wet all infested plant surfaces. May need to make repeated applications and/or use a companion insecticide.
  • malathion (Malathion 57EC): 1.5 pt/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 1B. Celery only.
  • petroleum oil (Suffoil XOG): 1 to 2 gal/100 gal water; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L. Celery only.
  • pymetrozine (Fulfill): 2.75 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee: L, Group 9B. Celery only.
  • pyrethrin (PyGanic EC5.0OG): 4.5 to 17 oz/A; 0.25 to 0.50 oz/gal, 3 gal/1000 sq ft in greenhouse for backpack sprayers; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: M, Group 3A.
  • sodium tetraborohydrate decahydrate (Prev-AM):  100 oz/100 gal; REI 12h, Bee: L, Group 25. Do not apply in midday sun or mix with copper, sulfur or oils. Celery only. 
  • spirotetramat (Movento): 4 to 5 oz/A; PHI 3d, REI 24h, Bee: M, Group 23. Must be tank-mixed with a spray adjuvant with spreading and penetrating properties to maximize leaf uptake and sytemicity; don't use sticker adjuvants. Controls immature stages; may also reduce adult fertility. Celery only.
  • sulfoxaflor (Closer SC): 1.5 to 2 oz/A; PHI 3d, 7d celeriac, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4C. Application to celeriac foliage and celery only. Do not apply any time between 3 days prior to bloom and until after petal fall. 
  • sulfoxaflor (Transform WG): 0.75 to 1.5 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 24h, Bee: H, Group 4C. Celeriac only. Do not apply any time between 3 days prior to bloom and until after petal fall. 
  • thiamethoxam (Actara): 1.5 to 3 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4A.
  • thiamethoxam (Platimum): 5 to 11 oz/A celery, 5 to 12 oz/A celeriac; PHI 30d celery, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4A. Systemic insecticide used as an in-furrow, banded, drench, or drip irrigation application to the seed/seedling root zone during or after planting/transplanting operations (celery and celeriac), or shanked into root zone after transplanting or establishment (celery only). 
  • tolfenpyrad (Torac): 17 to 21 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 21A. Celery only. 

Cabbage Looper and Imported Cabbageworm

See Cabbage and Other Brassica Crops for more information on cabbage looper and imported cabbageworm.

  • acephate (Orthene 97): 1 lb/A; PHI 21d, REI 24h, Bee: H, Group 1B. Tops must be removed before use; do not use tops for food or feed. Cabbage Looper on celery only.
  • alpha-cypermethrin (Fastac* EC): 2.2 to 3.8 oz/A for ICW, 3.2 to 3.8 oz/A for looper on celery and 1.8 to 3.8 oz/A for looper on celeriac; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
  • azadirachtin (Azatin OOG): 4 to 16 oz/A foliar or drench, 4 to 16 oz/100 gal in greenhouses; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L, Group UN. When using lower rates, combine with adjuvant for improved spray coverage and translaminar uptake.
  • Bacillus thuringiensis aizawai (XenTariOG): 0.5 to 1.5 lb/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L, Group 11. Must be ingested; apply in evening or early morning, before larvae are actively feeding. Adherence and weather-fastness will improve with use of an approved spreader-sticker. Use high rate at cool temperatures. For resistance management, may be rotated with Bt kurstaki products (Dipel).
  • Bacillus thuringiensis kurstaki (Dipel DFOG): 0.5 to 2 lb/A looper, 0.25 to 1 lb/A ICW; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L, Group 11. Must be ingested; apply in evening or early morning, before larvae are actively feeding. Adherence and weather-fastness will improve with use of an approved spreader-sticker. Use high rate at cool temperatures. For resistance management, may be rotated with Bt aizawai products (XenTari).
  • beta-cyfluthrin (Baythroid* XL): 1.6 to 2.4 oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A. Celery only.
  • carbaryl (Sevin XLR Plus): 1 to 2 qt/A; PHI 14d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 1A. Imported cabbageworm only.
  • chlorantraniliprole (Coragen): 3.5 to 7.5 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 4h, Bee: L, Group 28. May be applied to soil at planting, through chemigation and as a foliar spray. For drip application, must be applied uniformly in the root zone. For foliar application an adjuvant may be used. Cabbage looper only.
  • Chromobacterium subtsugae strain PRAA4-1 (GrandevoOG): 1 to 3 lb/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: M, Group UN. Cabbage looper only. 
  • cyantraniliprole (Exirel): 10 to 17 oz/A cabbage looper on celery, 10 to 20.5 loopers on celeriac; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 28. 
  • cyantraniliprole (Verimark): 6.75 to 13.5 oz/A at planting, 6.75 to 10 oz/A chemigation; PHI 1d chemigation, REI 4h, Bee: H, Group 28. For cabbage looper only. Celery only.
  • emamectin benzoate (Proclaim*): 3.2 to 4.8 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 6. Cabbage looper on celery only.
  • indoxacarb (Avaunt): 3.5 oz/A; PHI 3d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 22. Cabbage looper on celery only.
  • methomyl (Lannate* LV): 3 pt/A; PHI 7d, REI 48h, Bee: H, Group 1A. For cabbage looper on celery only.
  • methoxyfenozide (Intrepid 2F): 4 to 10 oz/A celery, 8 to 16 oz/A celeriac (root); PHI 1d, REI 4h, Bee: L, Group 18. Use lower rates when plants are small or infestations are light.
  • permethrin (Pounce* 25WP): 3.2 to 12.8 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A. Cabbage looper on celery only.
  • petroleum oil (Suffoil XOG): 1 to 2 gal/100 gal water; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L. Celery only. Not for ICW. 
  • pyrethrin (PyGanic EC5.0OG): 4.5 to 17 oz/A; 0.25 to 0.50 oz/gal, 3 gal/1000 sq ft in greenhouse for backpack sprayers; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: M, Group 3A.
  • sodium tetraborohydrate decahydrate (Prev-AM): 50 oz/100 gal; REI 12h, Bee: L, Group 25. Do not apply in midday sun or mix with copper, sulfur or oils. Cabbage looper only. Celery only. 
  • spinetoram (Radiant SC): 5 to 10 oz/A celery, 6 to 8 oz/A celeriac; PHI 1d celery, 3d celeriac, REI 4h, Bee: M, Group 5. Looper only on celeriac. 
  • spinosad (Entrust SCOG): 3 to 6 oz/A; PHI 1d celery, 3d celeriac, REI 4h, Bee: M, Group 5. Do not apply to celery seedlings intended for transplant. Not for ICW on celeriac. 
  • tebufenozide (Confirm 2F): 6 to 8 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 4h, Bee: L, Group 18. Use lower rate for early season applications to young, small plants. Use of an adjuvant is recommended. Celery only.
  • zeta-cypermethrin (Mustang*): 3.2 to 4 oz/A for ICW on celeriac and CL on celery, 2.24 to 4 oz/A for ICW on celery, 1.76 to 4 oz/A for looper on celeriac; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.

Leafminers (Liriomyza species)

There are several species of leafminers in the genus Liriomyza, including the serpentine leafminer (Liriomyza trifolii), the vegetable leafminer (L. sativae), pea leafminer (L. huidobrensis) and cabbage leafminer (L. brassicae).  Most of these species feed on a broad range of vegetables, weeds, flowers, and wild plants. Cabbage leafminer is most often found on brassicas, and rarely on other crop groups. In southern regions of the US, Liriomyza leafminers can be pests of basil, beans, cabbage and other brassicas, celery, lettuce, pepper, eggplant, tomato, and cucurbits. In New England, especially with greater use of selective insecticides that conserve natural enemies, these leafminers rarely reach pest status.

Adults in this group are small (2.0-2.5mm), hump-backed, clear-winged flies with black and yellow markings.  Females lay eggs within the leaf, and larvae feed between the upper and lower surfaces of the leaf, creating winding mines. When fully grown, larvae emerge and form a brown pupa about the size of a rice grain on the leaf or in the soil. The life cycle takes 3 to 4 weeks, depending on temperature. Mines render the leaf unmarketable, reduce photosynthetic capacity, and provide entry for pathogens. Leafminers are generally controlled by naturally occurring parasites unless disrupted by broad-spectrum insecticide applications. There is also a commercially available biological control, the tiny wasp parasitoid, Diglyphus isaea, used against Liriomyza leafminers in many crops; this works best in warm weather. 

In the southern and western US, pesticide resistance has become a problem.  Avoid obtaining transplants from outside the Northeast, which could carry resistant strains. Control broadleaf weeds in and around the crop. Incorporate infested crop residues after harvest to prevent emergence and movement to new plantings. Most importantly, use selective insecticides on other pests to conserve natural enemies. Scouting methods include catching adults on yellow sticky traps placed in the mid or lower canopy or trapping pupae in trays underneath the plants. Counting mines is a good index of past activity, but mines may be vacant, and searching for larvae in mines is time-consuming.  Treatment may be warranted if damage is delaying growth, if marketable parts of the plant are being damaged, or if adult fly populations are increasing. 

See the beets and chard section for leafminers that occur in the Amaranthaceae (spinach, beets, chard) crop group.

  • abamectin (Agri-Mek* SC): 1.75 to 3.5 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 6. Must be mixed with a non-ionic wetting, spreading and/or penetrating spray adjuvant; do not use binder or sticker type adjuvant. Celery only.
  • chlorantraniliprole (Coragen): 5 to 7.5 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 4h, Bee: L, Group 28. May be applied to soil at planting, through drip chemigation and as a foliar spray. For foliar application an adjuvant may be used. Larvae only. Celery only.
  • cyantraniliprole (Exirel): 13.5 to 20.5 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 28. Celery only.
  • cyantraniliprole (Verimark): 6.75 to 13.5 oz/A at planting, 6.75 to 10 oz/A chemigation; PHI 1d chemigation, REI 4h, Bee: H, Group 28. Celery only.
  • cyromazine (Trigard): 2.66 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee: M, Group 17. Celery only.
  • dimethoate (Dimethoate 4EC): 1 pt/A; PHI 7d, REI 48h, Bee: H, Group 1B. Celery only.
  • dinotefuran (Venom): 1 to 3 oz/A foliar or 5 to 7.5 oz/A soil; PHI 1d foliar, 21d soil, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4A. Soil application may be as a band during bedding, in-furrow at seeding, transplant or post-seeding drench, sidedress, or through drip. Celery only.
  • emamectin benzoate (Proclaim*): 3.2 to 4.8 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 6. Suppression only. Celery only.
  • insecticidal soap (M-PedeOG): 1.25 to 2.5 oz/gal water; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: L. Spray to wet all infested plant surfaces. May need to make repeated applications and/or use a companion insecticide. Apply this product only in a tank mix combination with a labeled companion insecticide. 
  • permethrin (Pounce* 25WP): 6.4 to 12.8 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A. Celery only.
  • petroleum oil (Suffoil XOG): 1 to 2 gal/100 gal water; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L. Celery only.
  • spinetoram (Radiant SC): 6 to 10 oz/A celery, 6 to 8 oz/A celeriac; PHI 1d celery, 3d celeriac, REI 4h, Bee: M, Group 5. Control may be improved with the addition of an adjuvant to the spray mixture.
  • spinosad (Entrust SCOG): 3 to 6 oz/A celeriac, 6 to 10 oz/A celery; PHI 1d celery, 3d celeriac, REI 4h, Bee: M, Group 5. Control may be improved with the addition of an adjuvant. Do not apply to celery seedlings intended for transplant.

Mites

See Eggplant for more information about mites.

  • abamectin (Agri-Mek* SC): 1.75 to 3.5 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 6. Must be mixed with a non-ionic wetting, spreading and/or penetrating spray adjuvant; do not use binder or sticker type adjuvant. Use high rate on celeriac.
  • Chromobacterium subtsugae (GrandevoOG): 2 to 3 lb/A; PHI 0d, 4h REI, Bee: M, Group UN. Celery only. 
  • malathion (Malathion 57EC): 1.5 pt/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 1B. Celery only.
  • Metarhizium anisopliae Strain F52 (Met 52 EC): 40 to 80 oz/100 gal soil, 8 to 64 oz/A foliar; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L, Group UN. Celery only.
  • petroleum oil (Suffoil XOG): 1 to 2 gal/100 gal water; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L. Celery only.
  • sulfur (Microthiol DisperssOG): 4 to 6 lb/A; REI 24h, Bee: L, No IRAC classification. Celery only.

Slugs

Damage appears as shredded foliage. Look for silvery slime trails on leaves or turn over soil clods or debris to find slugs during daylight hours. Grow plants away from moist, shaded habitats, use clean cultivation, control weeds, hand-pick/crush slugs, or scatter baits on the ground near infested plants. See the Cabbage section for more information on slugs.

  • metaldehyde (Deadline Bullets): 25 lb/A; REI 12h, Bee: L. Soil surface treatment broadcast pre-planting, or band treatment between rows after formation of edible parts. Apply to moist soil in the evening. Do not apply directly to or contaminate edible portions of plants. Celery only.

Tarnished Plant Bug (Lygus lineolaris)

See Lettuce for information about tarnished plant bugs. Bugs may feed on leaf petioles or produce lesions or small sunken cavities on stalks.  Injury to the inner growing tip can cause foliar discoloration and tissue destruction similar to the physiological condition known as blackheart.  If your crop is near weedy fallow fields or alfalfa, scout weekly from when celery is 4" tall until 3 weeks before harvest to detect TPB and injury, as the economic injury level is low. Treat if there are 2 to 4 bugs per 20 plants. Control weeds in and around the field.  Do not plant near legume crops that may be harvested during the season, or TPB may migrate to celery. 

  • beta-cyfluthrin (Baythroid* XL):  2.4 to 3.2 oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A. Celery only.
  • carbaryl (Sevin XLR plus):  1 to 2 qt/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 1A. Celeriac only. 
  • flonicamid (Beleaf 50SG): 2 to 2.8 oz/A; PHI 0d celery, 3d celeriac, REI 12, Bee: L, Group 9C. 
  • insecticidal soap (M-PedeOG): 1.25 to 2.5 oz/gal water; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: L. Spray to wet all infested plant surfaces. May need to make repeated applications and/or use a companion insecticide.
  • petroleum oil (Suffoil XOG): 1 to 2 gal/100 gal water; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L. Celery only.
  • pyrethrin (PyGanic EC5.0OG): 4.5 to 17 oz/A, 0.25 to 0.50 oz/gal, 3 gal/1000 sq ft in greenhouse for backpack sprayers; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: M, Group 3A.
Insect Control

Celery and Celeriac Weed Control & Physiological Disorders

Celery and Celeriac Weed Control & Physiological Disorders otank

NOTES: For the herbicides listed below, one product trade name and formulation is provided for each active ingredient along with preharvest interval (PHI), restricted entry interval (REI), resistance management group number, and example of rates and special instructions. In many cases there are other products available with the same active ingredient. However, not all products with the same active ingredient are registered for use in a crop. Always check the product label to be sure that the crop is listed before using. 

Stale Seedbed

See Stale Seedbed Technique for information on the use of these herbicides or flaming.

  • carfentrazone (Aim EC): REI 12h, Group 14.
  • glyphosate (Roundup Power Max): PHI 7d, REI 4h, Group 9.
  • pelargonic acid (Scythe): PHI 1d, REI 12h, Group 0.

Preemergent Herbicides (before weeds germinate)

  • bensulide (Prefar 4E): REI 12h, Group 0. Celery only. Apply 5-6 qt/A per application. Do not exceed 6 quarts per year. Can be applied before planting or after planting before crop has emerged. Incorporate 1-2” into the soil within 36 hours by shallow cultivation or with water through irrigation or rainfall. Grass control only; should be supplemented with cultivation or another registered herbicide for broadleaf control.
  • trifluralin (Treflan HFP): REI 12h, Group 3. Celery only. Apply 1-2 pts/A per application, only 1 application allowed per year. Can be applied to direct seeded or transplanted celery before planting, at planting, or immediately after planting. Rate based on soil texture, percent organic matter, and rainfall. Incorporate 2-3” into the soil within 24 hours of application and a second time in the opposite direction for best results. Take care not to bring untreated soil to the soil surface during re-incorporation.

Pre- and Postemergent Herbicides

  • linuron (Lorox DF): PHI 45d for celery, 60d celeriac, REI 24h or 8d, Group 5. Apply 1.5-3 lb/A per application, only 1 application per year. Apply after the celery or celeriac has been transplanted and established, but before the crop is 8” tall.  Only use on celery grown on muck soils. Do not exceed 40 psi spray nozzle pressure. Do not apply when temperatures exceed 85°F or as a tank mixture with surfactants, nitrogen or fertilizer solution, or other pesticides, as injury to the crop may result.
  • prometryn (Caparol 4L): PHI 40d for celery, 60d for celeriac, REI 12h or 48h, Group 5. For celery, apply 2.4-3.2 pts/A before the crop emerges or 1.6-2 pts/A after the crop has emerged. Only 1 application per year. For celery seedbeds, direct seeded, and transplanted celery, apply broadcast after 2-5 celery leaves are present or 2-6 weeks after transplanting, before weeds are 2 inches tall. Apply in a minimum of 20 gal/A for direct seeded and transplanted celery. Apply in minimum 15 gal/A for seedbed, only after seedbed covers have been removed for a week. Do not apply if crop is under water stress. For celeriac, apply 1.6-4 pts/A per application, only 1 application per year. Do not exceed 4 pts/A per year. Apply over the top of the crop after it has 6-8 true leaves. Apply in a minimum of 20 gal/A of spray. Only 1 application per crop cycle and only 2 crop cycles on the same acre per year. Always apply before the weeds are 2” tall. Rate based on soil texture, do not use on sand or loamy sand. Do not apply if crop is under water stress. Do not apply within 2 weeks after an application of an herbicidal oil, such as “carrot” oil.

Postemergent Herbicides (after weeds germinate)

  • carfentrazone (Aim EC): REI 12h, Group 14. Apply 0.5-2 oz/A per application, multiple applications allowed per year. Do not exceed 6.1 oz/A per season. Apply to row middles of emerged crops with hooded sprayers to control emerged weeds, including crops grown on mulch or plastic.  Prevent any spray from contacting the crop, or injury will occur.  For best results, make application to actively growing weeds up to 4” tall and rosettes less than 3” across.
  • clethodim (Select Max): PHI 30d, REI 24hr, Group 1. Apply 9-16 oz/A per application, multiple applications allowed per year, a minimum of 14 days apart. Do not exceed 64 oz/A per year or 4 applications per year.  Apply to actively growing grasses. Add 0.25% v:v nonionic surfactant (1 qt/100 gal of spray).  Can also be used as a spot-spray by mixing 0.33-0.66% (0.44-0.85 oz/gal) Select Max and 0.25% v:v nonionic surfactant (0.33 oz/gal).  Spray to wet, but do not allow runoff of spray solution.
  • pelargonic acid (Scythe): PHI 1d, REI 12h, Group 0. Celery only. Apply a 3-10% solution (3-10 gallons per 100 gallons of spray). Rate is based on target weed species. Apply in 75-200 gal/A of spray. Can apply before planting, or as a directed and shielded spray during crop growth. Avoid contact with foliage or crop damage may occur. Spray to wet, but do not allow runoff of spray solution.
  • sethoxydim (Poast): PHI 30d, REI 12h, Group 1. Celery only. Apply up to 1.5 pt/A per application, multiple applications allowed per year, a minimum of 14 days between applications. Do not exceed 3 pts/A per year. Apply to actively growing grasses. Rate is determined by weed species. Use with crop oil concentrate (2 pt/A) or methylated seed oil (1.5 pt/A). Note that crop oil can cause injury under hot and humid conditions. Can also be used as a spot-spray by mixing 1-1.5% (1.3-1.9 oz/gal) Poast and 1% v:v crop oil concentrate (1.3 oz/gal). Spray to wet, but do not allow runoff of spray solution.

Physiological Disorders

Blackheart

Blackheart is a physiological disorder akin to tipburn in other crops. It is associated with poor calcium assimilation as a result of inconsistent water uptake. Blackheart can be identified by the death of the growing points of the innermost petioles, or heart. Blackheart occurs in most celery growing regions, and significant losses have been reported in Florida, California, Texas, Utah and Wisconsin. If conditions favorable for the development of blackheart persist, the entire crown may be destroyed in a few days. In minor cases, the plants may recover or seem to recover, although symptoms can return. Symptom development is much more severe as plants approach maturity. The appearance of symptoms is closely linked to fluctuating water levels and available calcium. Environmental conditions that favor rapid growth, such as heavy rain or irrigation subsequent to drought, favor symptom development. High nitrogen, potassium, and sodium levels may also play a role. Certain celery cultivars are more susceptible to blackheart. Blackheart is prevented by ensuring steady plant growth, avoiding wide fluctuations in moisture and nutrients. Drench applications of soluble calcium can lessen or prevent the development of blackheart. Plant celery cultivars that are not prone to the syndrome. Drip irrigation, which provides more even moisture levels, can help reduce risk.

Weed Control and Physiological Disorders