Description
50 Seeds per pack
(Abelmoschus esculentus) Silver Queen Okra (A.K.A. White Velvet Okra, White Queen Okra)
Days to Maturity: 55-60 Days
First introduced in the United States in 1939 by the Hastings Seed Company, Silver Queen Okra quickly gained popularity for its unique appearance and superb quality. Originally bred to stand out among green varieties, this heirloom remains a gardener’s favorite.
With its creamy white pods growing to a tender 5–6 inches in length, Silver Queen is a standout in both the garden and the kitchen. The plants reach a height of 4–5 feet, producing a heavy yield of straight, smooth pods with a slightly ribbed texture. These pods are as visually striking as they are delicious, lending an elegant touch to any dish.
An easy-to-grow variety, Silver Queen thrives in full sun and warm climates, making it particularly well-suited to southern gardens. The upright plants are robust and productive, ensuring a steady harvest throughout the growing season.
Its mild, sweet flavor pairs beautifully with a variety of culinary preparations, from frying to pickling. Use it to thicken stews, roast with your favorite spices, or enjoy simply steamed for a delicate, fresh taste.
Silver Queen Okra stores well when refrigerated or frozen, preserving its texture and flavor for future use. It’s also an excellent choice for canning, making it a practical addition to any homestead pantry.
High in vitamin C and dietary fiber, this variety supports a healthy diet while adding versatility to your garden lineup.
Disease Resistance: Known for its robust health, it resists many common garden pests and diseases.
Planting Instructions for Silver Queen Okra Seeds
Silver Queen Okra is a tender, heat loving annual. Heirloom Okra seed can be direct sown in hot climates, or started indoors 3-4 weeks before the last frost for an early crop or in cooler climates. Soaking Okra seeds for 2 hours before planting will speed germination. To start Heirloom Okra seeds indoors plant ½” deep in 3″ pots. Outdoors plant seeds 1-2 weeks after last frost, ½” deep, 4-8″ apart, in rows 36″ apart. Thin Okra plants to or set out transplants 12-24″ apart. Plant or set Okra out in full sun. Germination should occur in 7-15 days in soil 70-90°F.
Harvest Silver Queen Okra pods often, to encourage continuous fruit set. Cut fruit from plant with shears or knife (to prevent damage to plant), when tender pods are 3-5″ long. Okra plants have short hairs that can be irritating to the skin. If irritation occurs wear long sleeves and gloves when harvesting.
FAQ:
What is the historical or notable background of Silver Queen Okra?
First introduced by the Hastings Seed Company in 1939, this heirloom variety was bred to stand out among green okras and has remained a gardener’s favorite for its unique appearance and quality.
How would you describe the flavor profile of Silver Queen Okra?
It has a mild, sweet flavor that pairs well with a variety of preparations, from frying and pickling to steaming and roasting.
What does Silver Queen Okra look like?
The creamy white pods grow to 5–6 inches in length, with a slightly ribbed texture, and the plants reach a height of 4–5 feet, producing straight, smooth pods.
What are the growth habits and garden appeal of Silver Queen Okra?
This upright plant thrives in full sun, grows to 4–5 feet tall, and produces a heavy yield of visually striking white pods, making it a standout in any garden.
What climate conditions are ideal for growing Silver Queen Okra?
Silver Queen thrives in warm climates with full sun, making it particularly suited for southern gardens and other warm regions.
What are the common culinary uses for Silver Queen Okra?
It is versatile in the kitchen, great for frying, pickling, thickening stews, roasting, or steaming for a fresh and delicate taste.
How should Silver Queen Okra be stored and practically used?
This okra stores well when refrigerated or frozen, and it is also excellent for canning, preserving its flavor and texture for long-term use.
What vitamins or nutrients does Silver Queen Okra contain?
High in vitamin C and dietary fiber, it supports a healthy diet and adds nutritional value to your meals.
Does Silver Queen Okra have any notable disease resistance?
Yes, it is robust and resists many common garden pests and diseases, ensuring a healthy and productive crop.
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