Kitchen Garden Forum

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

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.

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.

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.

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