Organic 'Cow Horn' Okra

Organic 'Cow Horn' okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) from the seed company Gaia, a giant heirloom variety, productive and perfectly adapted to the northeast

'Cow Horn' okra is an impressive heirloom variety, growing to a towering height of 240 cm (8′) and producing very long pods up to 38 cm (15″) . For fresh consumption, however, it is recommended to harvest them when they are approximately 12 to 13 cm (5″) long, at which point they are at their most tender, flavorful, and fiber-free . Highly vigorous and drought-tolerant, this okra thrives in northeastern climates , while also providing a generous yield for use in stir-fries, stews, marinades, or other preparations.

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

Spread/Carry : Upright, very vigorous
Plant height : Up to 240 cm (8′)
Quantity per packet : 20 seeds
Certification : Certified organic by Ecocert Canada
Special features : Giant variety, pods up to 15″, best tenderness at 5″, very productive, edible flowers

Leaf color : Medium green
Texture/flavor : Tender and young, slightly sweet, excellent for frying and stir-frying.
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 young plants carefully as the roots are fragile .
Replant when all risk of frost has passed, burying the seeds or seedlings 1.25 cm deep.

Place in full sun (level 3) and maintain regular watering (level 2), although this variety tolerates dry periods well.
Space the plants 45 to 60 cm apart, with 90 cm between rows. Germination takes 2 to 12 days at temperatures between 18 and 32 °C (optimum 21 °C).

Harvesting and preservation

Harvest every 2–3 days , when the pods are about 5″ long, the stage at which they are most tender and tasty.
Store them for 7 to 10 days in a perforated bag or ventilated container at 7–10 °C .

Usage ideas

• Deep -fried Cajun style or tempura
• In Creole okra , curries and stews
• In fermented or vinegared marinades
• In quick stir-fries or Asian-inspired dishes
• As a decorative garnish thanks to their edible flowers

'Cow Horn ' okra is a giant, robust, tasty and highly productive variety, ideal for northeastern gardeners seeking a spectacular okra that performs even in shorter seasons.