Organic 'Annie Oakley' Okra
Organic 'Annie Oakley' okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) from Gaia seed company, a compact okra, very productive and perfectly adapted to heat
'Annie Oakley OP' okra is a classic open-pollinated variety prized for its abundant production of uniform, tender, thornless green pods. Its compact yet vigorous plant, growing 90–150 cm (3–5′) tall, is well-suited to large gardens, smaller spaces, and container growing. Naturally heat- and drought- tolerant, this okra thrives in warm climates, producing continuously until frost. Its versatile pods are suitable for frying , pickling , soups , stews , and traditional Cajun dishes.
Companion plants : Lettuce, Peas, Radish, Pepper, Tomato, Bean, Sunflower, Basil, Melon, Eggplant, Cucumber
Nefarious plants : Rhubarb, Garlic
Spread/Carry : Compact but vigorous growth habit
Plant height : 90 to 150 cm (3–5′)
Quantity per packet : 20 seeds
Certification : Certified organic by Ecocert Canada
Special features : Thornless, very productive, compact, heat/drought tolerant, uniform pods, edible flowers
Leaf color : Medium green
Texture/flavor : Tender, sweet, excellent for frying or simmering
Cold tolerance : Low (tropical plant)
Farming method
Soak the seeds for a maximum of 12 hours in lukewarm water to optimize germination. Start sowing 6 weeks before planting , handling the young plants gently — the roots are fragile .
Sow or transplant outdoors after all risk of frost has passed. Bury the seeds at a depth of 1.25 cm .
Place in full sun (level 3) and water regularly (level 2) for maximum production, although okra tolerates drought well.
Space the plants 45 to 60 cm apart, and the rows 90 cm apart. Germination takes 2 to 12 days at temperatures between 18 and 32 °C (optimum 21 °C).
Harvesting and preservation
Harvest every 2 to 3 days , when the pods are young, green and tender , to stimulate continuous production.
Store the pods for 7 to 10 days in a perforated bag or ventilated container, at 7–10 °C .
Usage ideas
• Fried or tempura okra
• Homemade pickled okra
• In Creole or Cajun dishes
• In stir-fries, curries, soups and stews
• Edible flowers for decoration
'Annie Oakley' okra combines earliness, high yield, ease of cultivation, and great culinary versatility . A superb heirloom variety for any warm garden or container.
