Growing Okra, also Ladyfinger, gumbo

Abelmoschus esculentus : Malvaceae / the mallow family

Jan F M A M J J A S O N Dec
    S                  
        T              
        P              

(Best months for growing Okra in USA - Zone 5a regions)

  • S = Plant undercover in seed trays
  • T = Plant out (transplant) seedlings
  • P = Sow seed
  • Grow in seed trays, and plant out in 4-6 weeks. Sow seed at a depth approximately three times the diameter of the seed. Best planted at soil temperatures between 20°C and 35°C. (Show °F/in)
  • Space plants: 35 - 60 cm apart
  • Harvest in 11-14 weeks.
  • Compatible with (can grow beside): Peppers (Capsicum, Chili), Eggplant (Aubergine)

Your comments and tips

Post a comment or question Display Newest first | Oldest first, Show comments for USA | for all countries
18 Aug 20, (USA - Zone 10b climate)
Give it a try if you like. Look at your local conditions. They require warm/hot conditions by the look of it. If you don't produce a good crop then next year plant earlier as they suggest here.
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05 Jul 20, Mairlyn (USA - Zone 8a climate)
Is early July too late to sow okra in zone 8a (Virginia)? (www.gardenate.com/plant/Okra?zone=13)
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07 Jul 20, Matt Holloway (USA - Zone 8b climate)
Nope, get em in the ground!
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29 May 20, Maggie Sorrels (USA - Zone 8b climate)
Is it too late to plant okra seeds ? How long till harvest?
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17 May 20, Chuck Celestine (USA - Zone 8b climate)
it's May 16th and I'm wanting to sow some okra seeds. Has anyone had success in zone 8b? Would love some tips, for i don't have much room so I do mostly containers, but I can make space if needed. Thanks so much Chuck Celestine
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01 May 20, Bob (USA - Zone 9a climate)
Is it best to direct sow or transplant okra in 9a.
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09 May 20, Kimberly Borzillo (USA - Zone 7b climate)
direct sow....can do 2 week succession planting... okra loves hot weather and is very forgiving.
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08 Jul 19, Sai (USA - Zone 10a climate)
I planted Okra seeds indoors late June. They are about 3-5 inches now. The weather in my 10a zone has been 50s-70s. When should I plant the seedlings in my garden bed?
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19 Nov 19, Milena (USA - Zone 10b climate)
I'm in 10b (not so huge difference), I sowed directly in a container outside, also late June and they are doing awesome :)
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06 Jul 19, Tim (USA - Zone 9a climate)
How well does okra grow with green and Roma beans and field peas?
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Can i grow okra year around? What variety to plant?

- Sharon

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This planting guide is a general reference intended for home gardeners. We recommend that you take into account your local conditions in making planting decisions. Gardenate is not a farming or commercial advisory service. For specific advice, please contact your local plant suppliers, gardening groups, or agricultural department. The information on this site is presented in good faith, but we take no responsibility as to the accuracy of the information provided.
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