Proper celery

[vivienz]

My ambitious project this year is proper, old fashioned, trench celery. I love celery and eat it regularly and really look forward to the old fashioned winter one putting in a brief appearance at the end of the year. This winter, though, not a bit of it to be had anywhere, even Waitrose. The self blanching stuff is okay, but can't compare to winter celery on flavour or texture, so I've decided that I have no option other than having a go this year.

I wonder if this will go (or has gone) the way of forced rhubarb - deeply unfashionable, no growers left, then when chefs are after the next new thing, everyone will want it, but none to be had!

That's another job for next weekend - get my celery trench sorted out. All that digging should warm me up nicely!

Vivien

[Di]

I'm also planning to try some trench celery as my Mum complaiins that you can't get the proper stuff any more. I gather its one of the trickier things to do successfully, so keep us posted on how it goes.

[Colin_M]

Do either of you want some seed for this variety:
http://www.seedsofitaly.com/product/117

Interestingly, the description says it needs blanching, yet the picture shows quite green stems.

I have a few seedlings on the go at the moment and there are hundreds more in the packet (as per usual with seeds of italy.

[PLUMPUDDING]

Good luck. I've tried both, but either the slugs get in, or we get a dry summer, and I'm afraid the more demanding plants struggle a bit in my garden. If you've time to cosset the plants you should get good results though.

[sally wright]

Dear All,
it is sometimes sold on Cambridge market.
Regards Sally Wright.