
Dharaseeds
Okra Seeds Red Burgundy for planting in colorful vegetable patch and red okra garden
Estimated Free Delivery between May 07 and May 10.
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Red Burgundy okra is a stunning and flavorful variety that adds a splash of color to your garden and plate. This heirloom variety produces vibrant red pods that turn green when cooked, offering a unique visual appeal and a mild, tender taste. Ideal for warm climates, Red Burgundy okra thrives in hot, sunny weather and is a favorite among gardeners looking for an ornamental yet highly productive plant. Its striking color and excellent culinary qualities make it a must-have for any vegetable garden.
Key Benefits
- Unique Red Pods: Red Burgundy okra produces vibrant red pods that are visually striking, making it a standout in any garden.
- Tender and Mild Flavor: The pods, when harvested young, are tender and have a mild flavor that is less fibrous than other varieties.
- Heat-Tolerant: Thrives in hot, sunny conditions, making it perfect for summer gardening in warm climates.
- High Yield: Known for producing an abundant harvest, providing plenty of okra for fresh eating or preservation.
- Versatile in the Kitchen: Ideal for frying, pickling, grilling, or adding to soups and stews.
Variety Features
- Plant Characteristics: Tall, bushy plants that grow up to 5 feet in height with deep green leaves and attractive red stems.
- Fruit Characteristics: Produces red pods that are smooth, straight, and tender when harvested early. The pods turn green when cooked, maintaining a tender texture.
- Flavor Profile: Mild, tender, and slightly grassy, with a flavor that holds up well in various dishes.
- Size: Plants typically reach 4–5 feet in height, with pods growing 4–6 inches long.
Planting Instructions
Planting Season
- Planting Time: Start planting after the last frost date in late spring or early summer, when the soil temperature has reached 75°F–85°F (24°C–29°C).
- Ideal Temperature: Red Burgundy okra thrives in warm temperatures and requires a long growing season to produce the best pods.
Planting Details
- Seed Depth: Plant seeds 1 inch deep into the soil.
- Spacing: Space plants 12–18 inches apart, with rows 36–48 inches apart to allow for ample growth space.
- Soil Requirements: Prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0–6.8.
- Sunlight: Requires full sun for optimal growth, at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Care Instructions
Watering
- Consistent Moisture: Keep the soil evenly moist, but not waterlogged, especially during dry spells. Avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal diseases.
- Deep Watering: Water deeply to promote strong root growth, particularly in hot weather.
Fertilization
- Balanced Fertilizer: Use a balanced fertilizer (like 10-10-10) when planting and again when the plants are 6 inches tall to promote healthy growth.
- Organic Matter: Consider incorporating compost or organic matter into the soil to improve fertility and structure.
Weeding and Mulching
- Weeding: Regularly weed around your okra plants to prevent competition for nutrients and moisture.
- Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plants to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and keep the roots cool.
Pest and Disease Control
- Pests: Watch for common pests like aphids, flea beetles, and caterpillars. Use organic insecticides like neem oil or insecticidal soap to control these pests.
- Diseases: Okra is susceptible to fungal diseases like downy mildew. Practice crop rotation and maintain good garden hygiene to prevent disease buildup.
Harvesting
- Maturity: Red Burgundy okra typically matures in 55–65 days, depending on growing conditions.
- Harvest Size: Harvest pods when they are 4–6 inches long. Be sure to pick them young and tender for the best texture and flavor.
- Method: Gently twist the pods off the plant or use garden scissors to cut them at the base. Wear gloves to protect your hands from the plant’s prickly stems.
Storage
- Short-Term: Fresh okra can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Place the pods in a perforated plastic bag to allow airflow.
- Long-Term: For long-term storage, blanch the pods in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then cool them in ice water and freeze. This helps preserve the texture and flavor.
Culinary Uses
- Fried Okra: Coat the tender pods in cornmeal and fry for a crispy, crunchy treat.
- Pickled Okra: Red Burgundy okra makes excellent pickles, adding a tangy, crisp texture to your pantry.
- Grilled or Roasted: Toss the pods with olive oil and grill or roast for a smoky side dish.
- Soups and Stews: Add to soups and stews for a hearty, flavorful addition.
- Stir-Fries: Use sliced okra in stir-fries for added texture and flavor.
Conclusion
Red Burgundy okra is a beautiful and productive variety, perfect for gardeners looking for a visually stunning and flavorful vegetable. With its vibrant red pods, high yield, and mild, tender flavor, it’s an excellent choice for warm-season gardens. Whether fried, pickled, or added to soups, Red Burgundy okra will bring both beauty and taste to your kitchen.