Organic ‘Cajun Jewel’ Okra

Description

Organic ‘Cajun Jewel’ okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) from the seed company Gaia, an early-maturing dwarf okra, flavorful and perfectly suited to cool climates

‘Cajun Jewel’ okra is a heritage variety prized for its ability to adapt well to cooler climates , making it an excellent choice for northeastern gardeners. Compact yet vigorous, this thornless dwarf okra grows to 120150 cm (45) and produces tender, flavorful, uniform 7 pods very early in the season. Resilient, drought-tolerant, and highly productive when harvested frequently, it offers excellent culinary quality in a wide range of dishes.

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

Spread/Habit : Dwarf, compact, thornless
Plant height : 120 to 150 cm (45)
Quantity per packet : 20 seeds
Certification : Certified organic by Ecocert Canada
Special features : Very early, dwarf, tender, adapted to cool climates, 7″ pods, thornless, edible flowers

Leaf color : Deep green
Texture/flavor : Tender, sweet, excellent for frying, stir-fries, marinades
Cold tolerance : Average for okra, but not hardy

Farming method

Soak the seeds for a maximum of 12 hours in lukewarm water for optimal germination. Start the seedlings indoors 6 weeks before transplanting , handling the young plants carefully as the roots are fragile .
Sow or transplant after all risk of frost , at a depth of 1.25 cm .

Place in full sun (level 3) and water regularly (level 2) to maximize production, although this variety tolerates drought 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 23 days to encourage strong, continuous production. Pods should be harvested young, when they measure approximately 7 , for optimal taste and texture.
Store okra for 7 to 10 days in a ventilated container at 710 C .

Usage ideas

Deep -fried Cajun style or tempura
In Creole dishes , stews and soups
In a marinade
In quick stir-fries or curries
As a decoration thanks to its edible flowers

‘ Cajun Jewel’ okra is a robust, early, tender variety perfectly suited to northern gardens , ideal for gardeners looking for a reliable and tasty okra.