An autumn/early winter vegetable. Monarch is an excellent, high quality variety which has very smooth, easily washable, creamy coloured roots. Easier to grow than celery and can be grated raw over salads, cut into slices and boiled, or into strips which are fried. T&M's illustration shows Celeriac cubed and served with a walnut butter. An exciting dish which you too can create by using the FREE recipe, sent with each packet.

Sow from February to April 3mm (1/8in) deep in a good seed compost. Germination takes 21-25 days at 20-25C (70-75F). Sealing in a polythene bag after sowing is helpful. Lower the temperature after germination.

When large enough to handle, transplant the seedlings 4cm (1½in) apart into boxes. Gradually acclimatise to outdoor conditions and plant out in June 30-35cm (12-15in) apart in full sun and well drained soil.

Keep well watered especially in dry spells. Hoe regularly and remove any side shoots which may form. Harvest the roots in October-November. In late November lift any remaining and store in damp sand in a cool dry place for winter use.