Perkins Long Pod Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) is a high-yielding, early-harvest variety known for its long, slender green pods, which grow up to 6 inches in length. Unlike many other okra varieties that tend to develop a tough, fibrous texture as they mature, Perkins Long Pod retains its tenderness, making it a perfect choice for a wide range of culinary uses. Whether you love okra in gumbo, soups, pickling, frying, or canning, this variety offers superior flavor, texture, and productivity.
This bushy and productive plant grows pods as low as 3 inches from the ground and continues producing all the way to the top, ensuring a steady supply of okra throughout the growing season. Since it is an open-pollinated, heirloom variety, you can save seeds from your harvest and replant them year after year, making it a sustainable choice for gardeners.
Why Grow Perkins Long Pod Okra?
1. High-Yielding and Early Harvest
One of the key advantages of Perkins Long Pod Okra is its exceptionally high yield. This variety starts producing pods early in the season and continues for an extended period, ensuring a continuous supply of fresh okra. The vigorous growth and bushy habit of this plant make it ideal for both home gardeners and commercial growers looking for reliable production.
2. Superior Flavor and Versatility in Cooking
Okra is a staple ingredient in many traditional cuisines, from the Southern United States to Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. Perkins Long Pod Okra is perfect for:
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Gumbo & Soups: The natural mucilage (gel-like substance) thickens broths and stews beautifully.
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Frying: Crispy fried okra makes a delicious snack or side dish.
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Pickling & Canning: Preserve your harvest with homemade pickled okra.
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Grilling & Roasting: The slightly nutty flavor of roasted okra pairs well with spices and herbs.
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Salads & Stir-Fries: Slice raw or lightly sautéed okra into fresh dishes.
3. Easy to Grow & Drought-Tolerant
Okra thrives in warm climates and requires minimal care, making it ideal for beginners and experienced gardeners alike. It is highly drought-tolerant, meaning it can withstand hot and dry conditions without compromising productivity.
4. Disease Resistance & Open-Pollinated Heirloom Variety
Perkins Long Pod Okra is naturally resistant to many common garden pests and diseases, reducing the need for chemical treatments. Additionally, because it is an open-pollinated heirloom variety, you can save seeds from your plants and replant them year after year for a sustainable gardening experience.
How to Plant and Grow Perkins Long Pod Okra
1. Best Time to Plant
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Direct Sowing: Plant seeds outdoors 2-4 weeks after the last frost, when soil temperatures reach 70-80°F (21-27°C).
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Indoor Sowing: Start seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost if you have a short growing season.
2. Choosing the Right Growing Conditions
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Sunlight: Okra requires full sun (6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day) for optimal growth.
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Soil: Prefers well-draining, loamy soil with a pH of 6.0-7.0.
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Spacing: Plant seeds 1/2 to 1 inch deep, spaced 12-18 inches apart, with rows 3 feet apart to allow for bushy growth.
3. Planting Instructions
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Prepare the Soil: Work in organic compost to enrich the soil.
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Sow the Seeds: Plant seeds 1/2 inch deep and cover lightly with soil.
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Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist until germination (7-14 days).
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Thinning: Once seedlings reach 4 inches tall, thin them to one plant every 12-18 inches.
4. Caring for Perkins Long Pod Okra
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Watering: Water deeply once a week, ensuring soil stays moist but not waterlogged.
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Mulching: Apply mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
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Fertilizing: Use a balanced organic fertilizer every 4-6 weeks for vigorous growth.
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Pruning: Remove lower leaves as the plant matures to improve air circulation.
5. Harvesting Your Okra
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When to Harvest: Pick okra pods when they are 4-6 inches long, before they become too mature and fibrous.
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How to Harvest: Use garden shears to cut pods cleanly from the plant. Harvest every 2-3 days to encourage continuous production.
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Storage: Fresh okra can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, or frozen for long-term storage.
Why Choose Our Perkins Long Pod Okra Seeds?
1. 100% Non-GMO, Open-Pollinated & Chemical-Free
Our seeds are free from genetic modification, pesticides, and fungicides, ensuring safe and natural plant growth.
2. High Germination Standards
We regularly test our seeds for high germination rates, giving you a strong and healthy crop.
3. Eco-Friendly Packaging
Each packet is made from recycled materials and printed with vegetable-based ink, eliminating the need for plastic bags.
4. Full Growing Instructions Included
Whether you're a beginner or an experienced gardener, we provide detailed planting and care instructions to ensure your success.
Package Quantity & Storage
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Quantity: Each package contains 2g (approximately 30-60 seeds).
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Storage: Keep seeds in a cool, dry place for extended viability.
Final Thoughts
Perkins Long Pod Okra is a must-have for home gardeners looking for an easy-to-grow, high-yielding, and flavorful variety. With superior taste, soft pods, and a long harvest season, this heirloom okra is perfect for cooking, preserving, and seed saving.
By choosing our non-GMO, open-pollinated okra seeds, you’re investing in a natural, sustainable, and eco-friendly gardening experience. Start growing your own Perkins Long Pod Okra today and enjoy a delicious, homegrown harvest! 🌱
Check out our Perkins Pod here.