Organic 'Dwarf Lee' Okra

'Dwarf Lee' organic okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) from Gaia seed company, an early-maturing, productive dwarf okra ideal for container growing

'Dwarf Lee' okra is a compact heirloom variety, perfect for small spaces and container gardens . The plants, reaching less than 90 cm (3′) , produce abundant , slender, green pods 6 to 7″ long that are slightly ribbed, tender, and flavorful when harvested young. Early-maturing and well-suited to northeastern climates , this variety fruits generously throughout the season, especially with frequent harvesting. Its reliable production and small size make it an excellent choice for urban gardeners or anyone seeking an easy-to-grow and productive okra variety.

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

Spread/growth : Dwarf, compact, very productive
Plant height : Less than 90 cm (3′)
Quantity per packet : 20 seeds
Certification : Certified organic by Ecocert Canada
Special features : Very early, compact, ideal for containers, 6–7″ pods, tender, edible flowers

Leaf color : Medium green
Texture/flavor : Tender, sweet, excellent sautéed, fried, or eaten raw when young
Cold tolerance : Low (tropical okra)

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 their roots are fragile .
Transplant into open ground (or into a deep container) after all risk of frost, at a depth of 1.25 cm .

Place in full sun (level 3) and water regularly (level 2) to optimize production.
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 2–3 days to maintain continuous production.
The pods are best when they measure 6 to 7″ , while still young and tender.
Store the pods for 7 to 10 days in a ventilated bag at 7–10 °C .

Usage ideas

• Deep -fried Cajun style, tempura or pan-fried
• In curries , soups, stews or stir-fries
• Marinated for a crispy texture
• In salads when harvested very young
• As a decoration thanks to its edible flowers

Okra ' Dwarf Lee' is a compact, early variety suitable for small areas , ideal for gardeners in cool climates or container gardening, offering abundant, reliable and tasty production.