Cutting celery Amsterdamse Donkergroene is a traditional variety. Unlike celeriac or stalk celery, this variety is not grown for thick stalks or bulbs, but primarily for its aromatic leaves. The variety is known for its strong fragrance and pronounced flavour, which makes it widely used in the kitchen. Characteristic of cutting celery Amsterdamse Donkergroene are its intensely dark green leaves and stems. The leaves are finer than those of many other cutting celery varieties, and the plant has a relatively compact growth habit. Thanks to this combination of fine structure and deep leaf color, the plant not only appears vigorous but also provides a concentrated aroma. Compared to regular cutting celery, cutting celery Amsterdamse Donkergroene generally has finer leaves and stems and a more intense flavor. This makes the variety particularly suitable for dishes in which a distinct celery taste is desired.
Use cutting celery Amsterdamse Donkergroene as a seasoning in soups, sauces, broths, stews, oven dishes, and dishes with cheese and egg. The leaves can also be used as a leafy vegetable in various dishes. To preserve its rich and powerful flavor, it is recommended to add the celery only at the end of the cooking process. When harvesting, it is important not to cut the leaves too short. By leaving a small stub, the plant can regrow, allowing for multiple harvests. Non hardy annual.
Soaking: 24 hours
Outdoor sowing: March - July
Germination: 3 - 4 weeks
Germination temp.: 18 - 20 °C
Sowing depth: Shallow - ½ cm
Plant distance: 20 cm
Distance between the rows: 15 cm
Plant position: sunny - half shade
Soiltype: loose, nutrient-rich, moisture-retentive soil with good drainage
Harvest period: July - October
Soak the seeds in lukewarm water for 24 hours before sowing to encourage germination. Sow directly outdoors from March through July in a sunny to lightly shaded location.
Sow in rows 15 cm apart. Sow the seeds thinly and only on the surface, or cover them with no more than ½ cm of fine soil. Lightly rake the soil over the seeds and water thoroughly immediately after sowing. At a soil temperature of 18 - 20 °C , germination takes approximately 3 - 4 weeks. Keep the soil consistently moist during this period and do not allow it to dry out. Once the seedlings are large enough to handle, thin them to 20 cm (8 in) apart to give each plant enough room to develop properly.
Leaf celery grows best in nutrient-rich, humus-rich, moisture-retentive soil with good drainage. The plants require relatively high levels of nitrogen to produce abundant leafy growth. Water regularly and never allow the soil to dry out completely. Keep the growing area free of weeds throughout the season so the plants receive sufficient light, water and nutrients. Protect young seedlings from slugs, which can cause considerable damage, especially in spring.
The first leaves can be harvested from July onwards. Harvest the outer leaves or stalks first, leaving the centre of the plant intact so that it continues to produce new shoots. For a complete harvest, cut the leaves together with the stalks, leaving a substantial stump. New shoots will emerge from this stump, allowing the plant to be harvested several times. Fresh leaf celery can be used immediately or frozen successfully, preserving its flavour and aroma for a long time. With proper care, Leaf Celery 'Gewone Snij' will provide a continuous harvest of aromatic leaves for many months, making it an excellent herb for everyday cooking.
