Stetham celery (Stetham) is a mid-season, stalked variety developed by the Dutch company Rijk Zwaan. It is characterized by rapid growth and maturation within 70-90 days after transplanting seedlings, allowing harvest in summer and autumn. The plant forms an elevated rosette with long, uniform, light-green stalks and upright leaves that firmly hold onto the stems. The stalks are smooth, crisp, and juicy, with moderate fiber content, providing a pleasant taste and making them suitable for fresh consumption, thermal processing, and processing. The average fruit weight ranges from 800 grams to 1 kilogram.
The Stetham variety is distinguished by high resistance to bolting and flowering, which is especially important when grown during hot periods. It is also tolerant to diseases, contributing to stable and high yields regardless of growing conditions. The plant prefers fertile, light, and neutral soil, and requires regular watering, nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus fertilization, as well as loosening and weed control for successful growth. The recommended planting density is 80–100 thousand plants per hectare, ensuring optimal development and product quality.
Harvesting is easy due to the upright leaf arrangement and absence of lateral shoots. Stetham celery stalks are well-suited for transportation and can be stored for extended periods at 0–2 °C and high air humidity (98–100%). This variety is ideal for fresh market sales, as well as for use in salads, various dishes, and home preservation. Due to its taste and nutritional qualities, Stetham celery is a versatile and in-demand product for consumers and producers.
