Organic 'Burmese' Okra

Organic 'Burmese' okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) from the seed company Gaia, a tender, productive and delicious heritage variety, whether raw or cooked

'Burmese' okra is a heritage variety highly prized for its exceptionally tender , thornless , light green pods, measuring 10 to 30 cm (4 to 12″) and mild enough to be eaten raw , added to salads, or used young in cooking. As they mature, the pods turn a creamy yellow-green , while retaining their flavor. Highly productive and well-suited to the northeastern climate , it is a preferred choice for both market gardeners and restaurants thanks to its consistent quality and excellent pickling properties.

Companion plants : Lettuce, Peas, Radish, Pepper, Tomato, Bean, Sunflower, Basil, Melon, Eggplant, Cucumber
Nefarious plants : Rhubarb, Garlic

Spread/Habit : Upright habit, vigorous plant
Plant height : 120 to 150 cm (4–5′)
Quantity per packet : 20 seeds
Certification : Certified organic by Ecocert Canada
Special features : Very long pods (7–12″), tender when raw, sweet, thornless, excellent for pickling, very productive

Leaf color : Medium green
Texture/flavor : Very tender, soft, sweet, pleasant raw or cooked
Cold tolerance : Low (tropical plant)

Farming method

Soak the seeds for a maximum of 12 hours in lukewarm water to improve germination. Start sowing 6 weeks before transplanting , handling the seedlings carefully as their roots are fragile .
Sow or transplant after all risk of frost, at a depth of 1.25 cm .
Grow in full sun (level 3) with regular watering (level 2), even though the plant tolerates drought.
Space the plants 45 to 60 cm apart, with 90 cm between rows.
Germination in 2 to 12 days between 18 and 32 °C (optimum 21 °C).

Harvesting and preservation

Harvest every 2–3 days to encourage heavy production. Pods should be harvested young and tender , between 4 and 10 inches , for optimal flavor.
Store the pods for 7 to 10 days in a cool place (7–10 °C) in a bag or ventilated container.

Usage ideas

• Raw in salads, thanks to their exceptional tenderness
• Marinated for a firm and flavorful texture
• In stir-fries , curries or stews
• Deep-fried or tempura
• As a garnish in Asian or Cajun dishes

'Burmese' okra is a reliable, tender, productive and incredibly versatile variety, perfect for northeastern gardeners and anyone who enjoys sweet and tasty okra, even raw.