How Long Does Celery Last?
Fresh celery stalks, whole bunch or pre-cut.
The Short Answer
Celery lasts 14–28 days in the refrigerator when stored properly at 40°F or below. For longer storage, celery can be frozen for 10–12 months while maintaining good quality. These times are based on USDA food safety guidelines and assume proper storage conditions.
Storage Times at a Glance
Source: USDA FoodKeeper | Last verified: March 19, 2026 | Our methodology
The aluminum foil trick is the celery game-changer. Plastic bags trap ethylene gas which accelerates wilting. Foil lets it breathe while keeping moisture in. Your celery can last a month.
How to Store Celery
Wrap the bunch tightly in aluminum foil (not plastic wrap) and store in the crisper. This allows ethylene gas to escape while retaining moisture. Cut celery: submerge in water in a sealed container.
How to Tell if Celery Has Gone Bad
Look for these signs that celery has spoiled: limp and bendy stalks (mild; still usable for cooking), slimy surface, brown or black spots, hollow or pithy center.
The Professor's rule: When in doubt, throw it out. No meal is worth food poisoning.
The Bottom Line
Properly stored celery stays safe for 14–28 days in the fridge. Always store in airtight containers, refrigerate within 2 hours of purchase or preparation, and trust your senses. If something looks, smells, or feels off, discard it regardless of how many days it has been. Freezing is always an option if you will not use it within the refrigerator window.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Cut the bottom off and stand the stalks in a glass of ice water for 30 minutes to 2 hours. The cells rehydrate and the stalks crisp back up. Works surprisingly well.