Amasya Flower Okra Product Description and Distinguishing Features: The ecological characteristics of Amasya province are rich and varied, supporting a wide range of agricultural opportunities. This environmental diversity enables the cultivation of many different crops and plant species, including both agricultural varieties and natural flora. One of the standout agricultural products made possible by these ecological advantages is the Amasya Çiçek Bamyası (Amasya Flower Okra). As the leading region in the Black Sea Region of Turkey for okra cultivation, Amasya benefits from the relatively low altitude of the Canik Mountains, which allows the coastal climate to extend inland. Furthermore, the presence of the Yeşilırmak and Kızılırmak river valleys contributes to a milder climate, creating ideal conditions for okra growth. These factors provide a long growing season of approximately 125 to 135 days, which suits the okra plant’s preference for warmer weather. < Amasya Çiçek Bamyası distinguishes itself from other okra varieties grown across Turkey thanks to its unique characteristics, such as an extended harvesting period and excellent suitability for drying. The farmlands where this okra is cultivated are located in flat plains composed of alluvial soils with high water permeability. These areas are situated along the Yeşilırmak River and its tributaries, including Çekerek, Tozanlı, and Destek Çayı, as well as gently sloping regions like Taşova and Göynücek. Continuous cultivation over the years has allowed this okra variety to become highly adaptable, showing resistance to various environmental stresses such as climatic shifts, soil conditions, pests, and diseases. The plant is notable for its green stems with red streaks, which has led locals to affectionately nickname it "kızıl bacak" (meaning "red-legged"). Historical sources from the Ottoman era reveal that in 1893, a total of 975 okka (approximately 1250 kilograms) of okra were harvested in Amasya. Another record from 1901 notes that 76,920 kilograms of Amasya okra were sent to Istanbul, while an additional 220,504 kilograms were delivered to the Ottoman Palace. The formal promotion of Amasya Çiçek Bamyası began with the launch of the "Taşova Çiçek Bamyası Kültür ve Sanat Festivali" (Taşova Flower Okra Culture and Arts Festival), which was first organized by Taşova Municipality in 1994 and has been celebrated annually ever since. The Amasya Çiçek Bamyası, which is extensively grown in Amasya, Tokat, and nearby districts of Çorum, is known for its light green color and small-sized pods. When assessed in terms of fuzziness on the stems, leaves, and fruits, it is found that the stem and leaf hairiness—which can hinder harvesting—is very minimal. Furthermore, the low level of fruit fuzziness contributes positively to its eating quality. Thanks to these traits, this variety is favored over other types of okra by both farmers and consumers. The term "Çiçek" (flower) okra is used because it is picked after flowering but before the fruit reaches full maturity. This timing enables the okra to be easily dried during its season, making it ideal for use in the cold winter months. Moreover, due to general consumer preferences in Turkey, okras with smaller sizes are typically more desirable in the market. Climate Requirement: Okra is a warm-season crop that grows best in areas with consistently high temperatures. Heat is especially critical from the second half of June, when the plant begins to bloom and the harvesting process starts, through to the end of October. The period from July to October is vital for optimal productivity and ease of harvest, with October typically having the fewest sunny days. The Amasya Çiçek Bamyası variety depends on an abundance of sunshine and minimal cloud cover for successful daily harvesting. Inland regions such as Amasya, Tokat, and Çorum offer ideal growing conditions due to their low elevation, clear skies, and high exposure to sunlight. Limited Rainfall During Harvest Time: While okra requires frequent irrigation between June and October because of low natural rainfall, the scarcity of rain during this time actually contributes to better harvest quality and ease of collection. The peak harvesting months for Amasya Çiçek Bamyası are July and August, and the low rainfall typical of these months has a positive impact on yield and harvesting efficiency.