Apium graveolens var. rapaceum 'Neon': a vigorous celeriac with excellent storage qualities

Apium graveolens var. rapaceum 'Neon' is a modern, healthy, and vigorous celeriac variety valued for its reliable growth, early development, and exceptional storage qualities. This cultivar combines high yield with excellent culinary quality, making it an excellent choice for both commercial cultivation and the vegetable garden.

'Neon' produces firm, round tubers with smooth skin and fine, bright white flesh that retains its color even after cooking or storing. The plant is known for its resistance to leaf spot diseases, its vigorous foliage, and its uniform development, making it ideal for sustainable cultivation with minimal crop protection.

Key Features

• Type: Celeriac ( Apium graveolens var. rapaceum )

• Variety: Neon

• Maturation: Medium to early

• Tuber shape: Round, compact and firm

• Flesh: Beautiful white, does not discolour after cooking

• Taste: Mild, aromatic and pure

• Resistance: Good tolerance to leaf spot diseases ( Septoria apiicola )

• Use: Fresh, cooked, stewed or as a preserved vegetable

• Storage: Very good, suitable for long-term storage

• Height: Approximately 30–40 cm foliage height

• Harvest period: September to mid-November

Growth and cultivation

'Neon' is an early and vigorously growing variety that lends itself perfectly to cultivation in temperate climates. It requires nutrient-rich, well-drained, moist soil with ample organic matter. As a true nutrient-hungry celeriac, it responds strongly to a rich soil structure and regular fertilization with well-rotted compost or organic fertilizer.

Growing instructions:

• Sowing: From early March indoors at 20–24 °C.

• Prickling out: Once the seedlings have 2–3 true leaves, transplant them individually.

• Planting out: From the end of May, after the last chance of night frost.

• Planting distance: 40 x 40 cm to allow room for tuber development.

• Location: Full sun or light partial shade.

• Water: Water regularly and evenly – drought stress negatively affects tuber formation.

• Soil: Airy, humus-rich, with a pH between 6.5 and 7.5.

During growth, 'Neon' develops a strong root system and a well-developed leaf structure. The healthy foliage not only contributes to efficient photosynthesis but also reduces the risk of leaf fungal diseases, a common problem in older celeriac varieties.

Harvest takes place from September to mid-November, depending on the sowing date and the climate. The tubers are firm and can be harvested manually or mechanically.

Taste and use

'Neon' tubers are distinguished by their fine, white, and dense texture. The flesh is firm, juicy, and aromatic, with a mild celery flavor without the bitter notes that some older varieties can exhibit.

In the kitchen, 'Neon' is particularly versatile:

• Fresh: Grated in salads or raw vegetable dishes.

• Boiled or steamed: As a puree, soup vegetable or part of casseroles.

• Stewed or fried: Combines well with carrots, potatoes, apples and nuts.

• Storage: Thanks to its firm flesh, 'Neon' can be stored for months in a cool, dark place.

Even after prolonged cooking, the flesh remains bright white and aromatic, making this variety a favorite for both home cooks and professional kitchens.

Health and storage potential

One of the greatest advantages of 'Neon' is its natural resistance to leaf spot diseases, such as those caused by Septoria apiicola . This characteristic, combined with its vigorous foliage development, makes the variety reliable and low-maintenance.

After harvesting, the tubers can be stored at temperatures around 1–2°C and a humidity of 90–95%. Under these conditions, they will remain fresh and firm well into winter. Thanks to their compact structure, the tubers are less susceptible to bruising or rot during transport and storage.

Crop combinations and tips

Celeriac like 'Neon' grows well with cabbage, leeks, onions, spinach, and tomatoes. Avoid growing it next to potatoes or carrots, which can compete for nutrients. Regularly hilling up helps the tubers grow partially above ground and ensures a nice, round shape.

Conclusion

Apium graveolens var. rapaceum 'Neon' is a modern, vigorous, and reliable celeriac with excellent cultivation and flavor characteristics. This variety combines earliness, disease resistance, and storage quality with exceptionally white and flavorful flesh.

For gardeners, market vendors, and professional growers striving for a consistent harvest with high culinary potential, 'Neon' is a top choice. Its combination of health, flavor, and sustainability makes this celeriac a staple in both home gardens and commercial growing programs—a true benchmark for modern quality production.