Okra, Hill Country Red Vegetable Seeds, Cultivating Flavorful Harvests with Expert Planting and Gardening

Hill Country Red Okra Growing Guide

Key Attributes:

• Product Name: Hill Country Red Okra Seeds
• Scientific Name: Abelmoschus esculentus
• Type: Heirloom, open-pollinated
• Growth Habit: Tall, bushy (5-6 feet)
• Pod Characteristics: Deep red pods, thick and slightly ridged
• Days to Maturity: 60-75 days
• Light Requirements: Full sun (6-8 hours daily)
• Soil Requirements: Well-drained, fertile soil rich in organic matter (pH 6.0–6.8)
• Uses: Perfect for frying, gumbo, roasting, grilling, and pickling

Product Details:

• Germination Rate: High for reliable growth
• Seed Freshness: Newly harvested for optimal germination
• Origin: A Southern heirloom variety known for its rich flavor and vibrant red pods
• Shelf Life: Best planted within one year for maximum viability

Planting Instructions:

Seed Preparation:

• Soak seeds in warm water for 12-24 hours before planting to improve germination.

Sowing Guidelines:

Direct Sowing (Recommended):

• When to Plant: Sow seeds 2-3 weeks after the last frost, when soil temperatures are at least 70°F (21°C).
• Depth: Plant ½ to 1 inch deep in warm, well-drained soil.
• Spacing:
  • Within Rows: 12-18 inches apart
  • Between Rows: 36-48 inches apart

Germination:

• Typically occurs within 7-14 days under optimal conditions.
• Keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged.

Care & Maintenance:

• Watering: Provide 1 inch of water per week, increasing during hot, dry periods.
• Fertilization: Apply a balanced organic fertilizer or compost at planting and once flowering begins.
• Support: Plants can grow tall, so staking may help prevent bending.
• Pruning: Regular harvesting encourages continuous pod production.
• Mulching: Apply mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
• Pest & Disease Management: Watch for aphids, flea beetles, and powdery mildew. Use organic pest control methods as needed.

Harvesting & Storage:

• When to Harvest: Pick pods when they are 3-5 inches long for the best texture and flavor.
• Harvest Frequency: Check plants daily, as pods mature quickly and become tough if left too long.
• Storage: Store fresh okra in a perforated plastic bag in the refrigerator for up to a week.