Grow European Cutting Celery: A Guide to Cultivating and Enjoying This Unique Herb

When it comes to herbs, there are many varieties available that can add flavor and depth to your meals. One of the more unique herbs is cutting celery, also known as leaf celery, which originates from Europe. Unlike traditional celery, cutting celery is grown for its flavorful leaves instead of its stalks. If you're interested in growing this herb in your garden or using it in your cooking, read on for a guide to cultivating and enjoying European cutting celery.

What is European Cutting Celery?

European cutting celery, or Apium graveolens var. secalinum, is a variety of celery that is grown for its leaves rather than its stalks. The plant's leaves are thin and finely divided, with a strong flavor that is reminiscent of traditional celery but with more intense herbal notes. Cutting celery is commonly used in European cuisines, particularly French and Italian, where it adds depth of flavor to soups, stews, sauces, and salads.

How to Grow European Cutting Celery

Before you start growing cutting celery, it's important to note that it has slightly different growing requirements than traditional celery. Here's what you need to know:

Climate and Soil

Cutting celery prefers cooler temperatures and moist soil, so it's best grown in the spring or fall in most climates. In warmer climates, it can be grown during the winter months. The ideal soil for cutting celery is rich in organic matter and well-draining, with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0.

Planting and Care

You can plant cutting celery seeds directly into your garden bed or start them indoors about 8-10 weeks before the last frost date in your area. Plant the seeds about 1/4 inch deep and 1-2 inches apart. Once the seedlings have emerged, thin them to about 6-8 inches apart. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and fertilize every few weeks with a balanced fertilizer. Cutting celery grows to be about 12-18 inches tall and should be ready to harvest about 70 days after planting.

Cooking with European Cutting Celery

Once you've harvested your cutting celery, it's time to start incorporating it into your cooking! Here are some ideas to get you started:

Soups and Stews

Adding cutting celery to soups and stews is a great way to give them an extra boost of flavor. Try adding it to chicken noodle soup, beef stew, or vegetable soup for a delicious twist.

Sauces and Dressings

Cutting celery can also be used to add depth of flavor to sauces and dressings. Try adding it to a homemade pesto or chimichurri sauce, or use it to make a flavorful vinaigrette for your salad.

Salads and Sandwiches

Finally, cutting celery makes a great addition to salads and sandwiches. Use it in place of traditional celery for a more intense flavor, or mix it in with other greens for added depth.

A close-up of European cutting celery

European cutting celery may be a lesser-known herb, but it has a lot to offer in terms of flavor and versatility. By following the tips outlined in this guide, you can grow your own cutting celery and enjoy its unique taste in a variety of dishes. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting out, cutting celery is a great addition to any herb garden.

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