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 68°F and 95°F. (Show °C/cm)
  • Space plants: 14 - 24 inches apart
  • Harvest in 11-14 weeks.
  • Compatible with (can grow beside): Peppers (Capsicum, Chili), Eggplant (Aubergine)

Your comments and tips

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28 Jan 14, Trish (South Africa - Semi-arid climate)
Where do you find Okra in South Africa?
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08 Oct 13, Rirhandzu (South Africa - Summer rainfall climate)
What type of fertilizer would you recommend for Okra? Secondly, what are pests associated with Okra and how can one control them? Kind regards RIRHANDZU
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21 Jan 14, Masana (South Africa - Semi-arid climate)
I use the organic fertilizer with Gypsum lime and the normal manure - i find Okra responds well to it. It grows stunted in other fertilizers i have tried in the past. Stink bugs and bollworms are common pests for Okra. I also use the organic pest control for these that i buy at Builder's Express.
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10 Jul 13, Bhat RB (South Africa - Summer rainfall climate)
Okra or Lady's finger should be cooked/stir fried without water to get rid of gum content. Then it tastes nice. Before it is added to soups, the cut pieces of okra should be stir fried with small quantity of vegetable oil. This how the gum part is removed. Never use water to cook Okra.
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06 Jul 12, Johan (South Africa - Summer rainfall climate)
What tipe of fertilizers do one ure I am using MAP 39 for now and then what els can one use when plants are bigger.plants are 3 weeks old
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Showing 61 - 65 of 65 comments
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I've grown it in Chch before. It grew well (lots of vegetation) but I didn't get a very big harvest off it.

- Tim

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