The beloved Delta State Fighting Okra mascot paid a visit to its skyscraping cousin in Tupelo.
Earlier this year, Lee County couple Weylon and Tonja Michael began the process of growing an okra plant that suddenly began to display exceptional height. At the time of the mascot’s recent visit, the plant had not quite surpassed the world record of 16 feet and four inches.
However, that has since changed.
Though strong winds and a cold snap threatened the okra plant a few weeks ago, the Michaels secured the plant to the side of their house with straps, covered it in plastic, and ran a line from a nearby dryer vent under the plastic to keep the plant warm.
The plant is now as tall as the peak of their roof. Botanists from Mississippi State Extension Service have measured the plant at 17 feet and the plant is still growing about an inch per day and is still producing pods. Weylon and Tonja will be submitting the required documentation to have the plant officially recognized as the new world record holder in the coming days.
As for what went into getting a special visit from arguably the most unique mascot in the world, the Michaels reached out to Dr. Christy Riddle, Delta State’s Chief Marketing Officer to enlist the Fighting Okra’s services.
“I received an email letting me know that Tonja and Weylon had grown a very tall okra plant, and they were trying to beat the world record,” Riddle said, “My first thought was, ‘Is this a scam?’ But then, I realized, who would try to scam me about a gigantic okra plant?”
After concluding that she was, in fact, not being scammed, a plan to bring the Fighting Okra mascot to northeast Mississippi was executed.
“We were shocked and thrilled that the Fighting Okra would come all this way over to this side of the state. It was a great experience for us,” Weylon said. “We never expected to get so much attention, but we are very appreciative of everyone taking part in this.”
The Fighting Okra was available for comment but did not make one, since it does not speak.
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