Okra, Red Burgundy (Abelmoschus esculentus) - 50 Seeds

•Heirloom
•Non-GMO
•American grown seeds
•Easy to grow
•All American Award winner

Description:
Easy on the eyes and taste buds, this high yielding, stunning plant produces slender burgundy pods. Beware! Beauty is fleeting and pod color fades when cooked. Plants grow 4' high, harvest pods when less than 6" long.

Health Benefits:
Okra, its pods, and seeds contain a variety of antioxidant compounds, including phenolic compounds and flavonoid derivatives, such as catechins and quercetin. Scientists think that these compounds may help lower the risk of cancer. Scientists also believe that these compounds may have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. In a 2014 study, researchers used lectin from okra in a lab test to treat human breast cancer cells. The treatment reduced cancer cell growth by 63% and killed 72% of the human cancer cells. More studies are being conducted to see if okra has an effect on cancer in humans. Okra is a good source of folate. One 2016 review suggested that folate may have preventive effects against breast cancer risk.

Growing Instructions:
Okra loves heat, so gardeners with short growing seasons may need to start their seeds indoors. Plan to set them out 3-4 weeks after the last frost. Before planting the seeds, soak them overnight to encourage faster germination. Plant 2-3 seeds in one peat pot and keep them at 80-90° until germination. A plant heat mat can help achieve this and is a wonderful tool for any gardener to have. Thin to the strongest plant by cutting off the weaker seedlings. When the air temp gets into the 60s, plant the seedlings in full sun 12-15" apart in rows 3 feet apart. For direct sowing in warmer climates, sow the seeds 3/4" deep and later thin the plants to 12-15" apart. When the seedlings reach a height of 4", apply much to conserve water and control weeds. Keep plants moist during dry weather.