Celeriac 'Balena'
description
Organic 'Balena' celeriac (Apium graveolens var. rapaceum), offered by seed company WH Perron
Organic 'Balena' celeriac is a high-quality variety, renowned for its round, smooth, and very white root with firm, flavorful flesh. Its resistance to bolting and excellent uniformity make it a reliable choice for the vegetable garden. Highly prized in cooking, it develops large, well-formed roots and offers excellent long-term storage when kept cool.
At maturity, the root reaches approximately 26 cm in length and an ideal diameter for culinary use. 'Balena' is particularly well-suited to autumn and winter harvests, when it retains all its flavor. When grown properly in rich, consistently moist soil, it yields consistent, high-quality results.
Latin name: Apium graveolens var. rapaceum
Maturity: Annual
Type: Celeriac
Maturity after transplantation: Approximately 105 days
Root length: Approximately 26 cm
Quantity per packet: Approximately 50 seeds
Formulation: Organic
Uses: Cooking, winter storage
Companion plants: Beans, cabbage, leeks, onions, tomatoes
Nefarious plants: Lettuce, potato
Cultivation method:
Sow 'Balena' celeriac indoors in early March in light, sandy soil , covering the seeds with about 3 mm of soil . Germination occurs after about 3 weeks at a temperature of around 17°C . When the seedlings reach 2.5 cm , transplant them into individual pots to encourage strong root development.
Towards the end of May , transplant into the garden in soil rich in organic matter , spacing the plants 20 to 30 cm apart in rows at least 60 cm apart. Celeriac is sensitive to deficiencies, particularly in boron : a lack can cause heart rot and hollow roots. A well-amended and balanced soil is therefore essential.
Growing tips:
Keep the soil consistently moist , especially during root development. A mulch of compost and straw helps retain moisture and regulate soil temperature. Water regularly when rainfall is scarce, but never allow the soil to dry out completely.
Harvesting and storage:
Harvest when the root reaches a diameter of at least 10 to 15 cm . Cut off the foliage and store the roots in a cool, humid place , such as a basement or cellar. 'Balena' keeps very well throughout the winter , without any noticeable loss of quality.
White, even and perfect for winter!
With its smooth root, good bolting resistance, and excellent storage qualities , organic 'Balena' celeriac is a top choice for gardeners looking to produce reliable and flavorful celeriac. A must-have for the autumn and winter vegetable garden , it's as practical as it is delicious.
