It's a bit difficult to comment on your planting dates, because you don't give us your zone. I know that Australia and New Zealand have growing times that are more or less opposite from ours, but still would be nice to know when you plant your veggies, and soil temps, etc. I planted some celery about 5 years ago - it was described as "improved" Utah (something), and it has been with me ever since, as I let some go to seed. Fresh seed works well, and harvested celery seed is great for an addition to the spice shelf. Granted, my zone is quite warm in winter - but perhaps the seed was nice and fresh as well. In our zone 10 - California, we plant celery in Aug, Sept, Oct and Nov., along with other crops - such as broccoli, cabbage, lettuce, etc., - cool weather crops, and celery is very happy with our mild winters, liking lots of water and can withstand shade when the weather becomes warmer. About your planting method - just a thought - does your container have good drainage? What about light - are you growing inside? Under light? No mold? These are all factors in growing from seed. Most vegetable seeds like warmth to around 70 degrees if possible to germinate. Good air circulation - once seed sprouts, remove the dome - to prevent mold formation from too much humidity. HOpefully, your seed is still viable. To test some - place a few seeds in a damp paper towel, place inside a plastic bag, keep warm - and see if they sprout. If not, then seeds are too old - try another supplier. Sorry - can't help any more than that with the information given. Keep trying! Bejay

Wow! I was surprised to see this today. I have been off the past week gallivanting around in a luxurious small suite with my own cadre of folks catering to my every whim, whistle and bell ring. Sadly, I did nothing more than sleep. Today I am fretting about my fall seeds and cursing this lingering malaise. This is a patch of Utah celery I grew last year as a border around our peach tree. It was lovely to look upon and lovely to cook with. Celery seed and baby plants need to be constantly slightly moist. Last year I started seeds inside and keep the soil misted daily. This year I started seeds inside in slightly heavier soil, then unexpectedly checked into the local full care resort facility. I suspect they are toast. I also grew a variety I got from Baker Creek Seed which they no longer carry, that I found to do better in my garden than the Utah. I have two of those plants that are in their second year. I had much better luck with the celery I grew in part-shade than the full sun set. Also, I found that celery likes growing in heavy, composty soil. And the drip from the AC is brilliant! ~dianne

Thanks y'all - I have one more question. I have read to wrap the plant in cardboard two weeks before harvest to blanch the stalks. I know there will be less nutrients by blanching them, but they will be more tender. MY QUESTION - how do I know when is 2 weeks before harvest? Since this is my first time growing celery, I have no idea:)

Unfortunately, we don't have a wide variety of potting soil in the market here in the Philippines. I guess I'd go with something nonspecific when buying one and use that. Your garden's huuuge! So 3 plants in a ten inch pot? I see... I have two plants in my 10 inch pot. But that's good to know that it will thrive. I guess I'll have to move it to a shadier area as I can see that yours is in a shaded area and see what happens. Thank you! BTW, do you blanch your celery? I read somewhere online that blanching helps with the taste.