Type: Open Pollinated / Heirloom
Relative Days: 56
Skin Color: Dark Green
Life Cycle: Perennial in warmer, frost-free regions but typically grown as an Annual in most climates
Characteristics:
Emerald Okra is a standout heirloom variety originally bred and introduced by the Campbell’s Soup Company in the early 1950s. Developed to retain its deep green color and tender texture in soups and stews, it quickly gained popularity among home gardeners for its exceptional eating quality and dependable performance. Campbell’s agricultural research in New Jersey focused on improving staple ingredients, and Emerald was specifically designed to meet the company’s needs for high-quality okra in their canned gumbo recipes.
This vigorous, early-producing variety thrives in a range of climates and is particularly well suited for northern regions due to its early maturity. Plants reach 6 to 9 feet tall and often develop secondary branching near the base, producing more than 20 full-sized pods per plant. The pods are straight, narrow, velvety, and spineless, making them easy to harvest and enjoyable to cook with. They remain tender up to 6 or 7 inches in length before the seeds begin to toughen the interior.
Emerald Okra is also a beautiful addition to the garden, with large, white blooms that attract pollinators and hummingbirds. Whether sliced into stews, roasted whole, or sautéed fresh, the smooth texture and rich flavor of Emerald make it a favorite in the kitchen and the garden.
Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus)
Okra is a popular vegetable commonly found in both home and commercial gardens. A significant acreage is planted for the soup and frozen food industry. While new varieties of okra are not introduced as frequently as some other vegetables, plant breeders and commercial companies continue to improve existing varieties, with some hybrids being released.
Temperature
Plant okra when the soil temperature reaches at least 60°F for good seed germination. Okra thrives in hot, humid summers and requires warm areas with plenty of sunlight.
Soil
Okra grows best in well-drained, fertile soils with good water retention capacity. Avoid planting in very light, sandy soils or those with poor drainage or known hardpans.
Planting
Plant seeds 1 1/2 to 2 inches deep, placing 4 to 6 seeds per foot of row. Thin plants to 8 to 12 inches apart.
Spacing
- Within the row: 18–24 inches
- Between rows: 42–60 inches
Harvest
Okra grown for processing usually produces pods on brittle stems. These pods can be broken off with a snap, leaving the stem attached to the plant. For processing, allow the pods to grow as long as possible without becoming fibrous or hard. If the pod tip snaps off evenly, it is generally still tender.
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