Celery will keep in the refrigerator for about one to two weeks when stored properly.
That’s the short answer, but how long celery actually stays fresh depends a lot on how you prep and store it.
If you’ve ever pulled a sad, limp bunch of celery out of your crisper drawer, you know exactly what I’m talking about.
The good news is that celery can last much longer in the refrigerator when you treat it right.
In this post, we’ll break down exactly how long celery will keep in the refrigerator, the best ways to store it, and how to tell when it’s gone bad.
Let’s dive in.
How Long Will Celery Keep in the Refrigerator?
Celery will keep in the refrigerator for one to two weeks on average, and sometimes up to three weeks if stored correctly.
That said, how long celery lasts depends on a few key factors, including how fresh it was when you bought it and how you store it at home.
1. Whole Celery Stalks Last Longer Than Cut Pieces
A whole head of celery will keep in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, sometimes even three.
That’s because the stalks are still attached at the base, which helps them hold onto moisture.
Once you cut into the bunch, though, the clock starts ticking faster.
Cut celery will keep in the refrigerator for about five to seven days when stored in an airtight container.
2. Temperature Plays a Big Role
Celery will keep longer in the refrigerator when it’s stored at the right temperature.
The ideal range is between 33°F and 41°F, which is why your crisper drawer is the perfect spot.
If your fridge runs warm, celery will soften and spoil faster.
3. Moisture Is a Double-Edged Sword
Celery needs moisture to stay crisp, but too much moisture leads to rot.
That’s why how you wrap it matters just as much as where you put it.
Striking that balance is the secret to making celery keep in the refrigerator for as long as possible.
Best Ways to Store Celery in the Refrigerator
If you want celery to keep in the refrigerator for the full two weeks (or longer), here are the storage methods that actually work.
1. Wrap It in Aluminum Foil
This is a favorite trick among chefs, and it works like a charm.
Wrap the whole bunch tightly in aluminum foil and place it in the crisper drawer.
The foil lets ethylene gas escape while locking in moisture, so celery will keep in the refrigerator for up to three weeks.
2. Use a Plastic Bag With a Paper Towel
If foil isn’t your thing, place celery in a zip-top plastic bag with a dry paper towel.
The paper towel absorbs excess moisture, while the bag keeps humidity in.
This simple setup helps celery keep in the refrigerator for one to two weeks without getting slimy.
3. Store Cut Celery in Water
For cut celery sticks, place them upright in a jar with an inch or two of water.
Cover the top loosely with a plastic bag and pop it in the fridge.
Stored this way, celery will keep in the refrigerator for about a week, and it stays crunchy and fresh.
4. Keep It Away From Ethylene Producers
Fruits like bananas, apples, and peaches release ethylene gas, which speeds up spoilage.
Keep celery in a separate drawer or shelf away from these fruits.
Doing so helps celery keep in the refrigerator much longer than it would otherwise.
How to Tell If Celery Has Gone Bad
Even when you do everything right, celery will eventually start to turn.
Here are the signs that it’s time to toss it.
1. It Feels Slimy
A slimy texture is the clearest sign that celery has spoiled.
If the stalks feel sticky or slick, celery won’t keep in the refrigerator any longer, so it’s best to throw it out.
2. The Color Turns Yellow or Brown
Fresh celery is a crisp, pale green.
If yours has turned yellow or brown, it’s past its prime and won’t taste good.
3. It Smells Off
Fresh celery has a mild, clean scent.
If it smells sour or funky, that’s a sign bacteria has taken over, and celery won’t keep in the refrigerator safely anymore.
So, How Long Will Celery Keep in the Refrigerator?
Celery will keep in the refrigerator for one to two weeks on average, and up to three weeks when wrapped in foil or stored with a paper towel.
How long celery lasts really comes down to proper storage, the right temperature, and keeping it away from ethylene-producing fruits.
If you notice sliminess, yellowing, or a bad smell, it’s time to let it go.
With these tips, you’ll get the most out of every bunch, and you’ll never wonder again how long celery will keep in the refrigerator.