Kojak

Celeriac

Zone 9b Save Garden

🌱 120d to harvest Upright

Aromatic and richly sweet, Kojak celeriac forms a smooth, rounded crown with a creamy, ivory interior and a faintly peppery perfu…

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Nov 17th
Last Frost	Feb 9th
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Jan 26th
Harvest Begins	May 26th
Harvest Ends	Dec 9th

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	120
Sun Requirements	Full Sun
Growth Habit	Upright
Support Needed	None
Planting Depth	Normal
Germination Temp (°F)	70
Min Soil Temp (°F)	45
Min Night Temp (°F)	35
Harden Off (days)	7

Recommended Companions

Kettle River Giant Garlic

American Flag Leek

Frequently Asked Questions

What pest or disease commonly affects Apium graveolens var. rapaceum (celeriac/“Kojak”), and how can I control it?

Celeriac often gets celery leaf spot and other leaf blights (dark spots that expand and cause yellowing), especially with humid, crowded foliage. Water at the soil line and space plants so leaves dry quickly, then remove the worst infected leaves to slow spread. If problems persist, apply a labeled fungicide that’s approved for celery/Apiaceae leaf spot and follow label intervals.

How often should I water Kojak celeriac during the main growing phase?

During active bulb (root) enlargement, keep soil evenly moist—aim for about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of water per week, adjusted for your rainfall and heat. Water deeply so moisture reaches the celeriac’s expanding root, but avoid standing water because soggy soil increases rot risk. A simple check: the top 1–2 inches should not dry out completely between waterings.

How do I know when Kojak celeriac is ready to harvest?

Harvest at about 110–120 days when the celeriac base is firm, well-sized, and the “shoulders” of the bulb feel solid rather than spongy. Leaves should look sturdy but not freshly regrowing; if bulbs are still small and soft, give them more time. For best quality, lift before hard freezes, as prolonged freezing can damage the outside skin.

Aromatic and richly sweet, Kojak celeriac forms a smooth, rounded crown with a creamy, ivory interior and a faintly peppery perfume that lingers like fresh-cut herbs. The flesh stays tender and fine-grained, offering a velvety bite that shines when roasted until caramel-soft, or when grated for bright, fragrant salads and slaws. Grow Kojak for its dependable, uniform shape and its bold, celery-deep flavor that elevates sauces and braises with ease.

Sowing Tips

Transplant Conditions

Wait until soil reaches 45°F and nights stay above 35°F before moving outdoors. Harden off for 7 days first.

Expert Note

Start celeriac early indoors and transplant only after nights are consistently warm; keep the crown at soil level and size up by avoiding drought stress.