How to Grow Cutting Celery
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Cutting Celery
Apium graveolens var. secalinum
vegetableCutting celery, also called leaf celery or Chinese celery, is a leafy vegetable grown primarily for its tender leaves and thin stems rather than thick blanched stalks. It is more cold-hardy and disease-resistant than pascal celery, with a stronger, more aromatic flavor. This variety is commonly used in Asian cuisines and as a fresh culinary herb.
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Example Cutting Celery timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Cutting Celery
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Cutting Celery
Around Jun 6≈ 50 days after planting
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 3-8, cold-hardy and adaptable to cooler climates
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Seedling
2-3 weeksTiny seedlings with 2-4 true leaves appearing within 2-3 weeks. Very small and delicate initially.
Keep soil consistently moist; provide warm conditions (65-75°F). Thin seedlings to proper spacing. Protect from strong winds and direct sun if transplanted too early.
Vegetative Growth
3-4 weeksPlant develops multiple thin, upright stems with abundant glossy green leaves. Foliage becomes bushier and fuller over time.
Maintain consistent moisture and fertilize every 3-4 weeks with balanced or nitrogen-rich fertilizer. Mulch around base to retain soil moisture and cool roots. Monitor for pests.
Harvestable Foliage
Throughout growing seasonPlant reaches 12-18 inches tall with dense, tender leaves and thin edible stems ready for harvesting.
Begin harvesting outer leaves when plant is 8-10 inches tall. Regular harvesting encourages bushier growth. Continue providing water and light feeding.
Peak Production
4-8 weeks or longerEstablished plants producing abundant tender leaves continuously; stems remain thin and flavorful.
Harvest outer leaves frequently to prevent bolting and encourage new growth. Maintain consistent moisture and nutrient levels. Remove any flower buds to extend leaf production.
Decline/Bolting
Variable, 6-10 weeks after harvest beginsPlant begins to send up flower stalks; leaves may become tougher and more bitter.
Pinch off flower buds if continued leaf harvest is desired. In cool seasons, production may extend through fall. In heat, plants bolt more quickly.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Handpick affected leaves; use neem oil or spinosad; encourage natural predators; remove plant debris
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Remove by hand; apply Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis); use row covers on young plants
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Spray with strong water stream; use insecticidal soap; apply neem oil; encourage ladybugs
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Increase humidity; spray with water; apply neem oil; use insecticidal soap
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Use fine mesh row covers; rotate crops; remove affected plants; maintain garden cleanliness
Uses
Fresh Herb & Cooking Ingredient
CulinaryLeaves and thin stems are commonly used fresh in Asian stir-fries, soups, salads, and as a garnish. The flavor is more aromatic and less bitter than pascal celery, with a pleasant herbaceous quality. [source]
Soup Stock & Broths
CulinaryA classic flavoring component in stocks, broths, and vegetable-based soups throughout Asian and European cuisines. Often used like parsley or cilantro as a finishing herb. [source]
Traditional & Herbal Medicine
MedicinalUsed in traditional Chinese medicine and Ayurveda for digestive support and general wellness. Contains compounds associated with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. [source]
Natural Flavoring Agent
HouseholdDried leaves can be used as a spice or seasoning blend for cooking, adding depth to salt-based seasonings or dry rubs. [source]
Pollinator & Beneficial Insect Support
WildlifeWhen allowed to flower, cutting celery produces small umbel flowers that attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects to the garden. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Begin harvesting outer leaves when plant is 8-10 inches tall by cutting them at the base with a sharp knife. Cut outer leaves first, allowing inner leaves to continue growing. Harvest in the morning for best flavor and texture. Can be cut back to 2-3 inches above soil for regeneration; plants typically regrow. Continue harvesting every 7-10 days for tender, flavorful foliage. Most tender before plant flowers; use immediately or store in refrigerator for 1-2 weeks.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Cutting celery is the ancestor of modern pascal celery and is still the primary celery variety grown in China and much of Asia, where it has been cultivated for thousands of years.
- 🌱 Unlike pascal celery, cutting celery requires no blanching and is naturally tender with a thinner, more delicate structure suited to frequent harvesting.
- 🌱 Celery leaves contain more nutrients than the stalks, including higher concentrations of vitamins, minerals, and beneficial compounds—making cutting celery an especially nutritious way to enjoy the plant.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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