Growing Okra, also Ladyfinger, gumbo

Abelmoschus esculentus : Malvaceae / the mallow family

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

(Best months for growing Okra in Australia - sub-tropical 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

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01 Mar 18, Mike (Australia - sub-tropical climate)
Should be Ok by this website. It says plant up to Feb - today is only 1st March.
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04 Mar 18, Jill (Australia - sub-tropical climate)
Have been harvesting okra since last week Feb (Brisbane) but it's been really hot
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16 Feb 18, Anette (Australia - temperate climate)
Is it too late to sow okra seed in Adelaide?
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19 Feb 18, Mike (Australia - temperate climate)
You are Temperate zone. It says plant by Jan - you can give it a try.
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07 Feb 18, John Manousso (Australia - temperate climate)
Can you please tell me how to grow Okra the best way in the Liverpool area... what do I need prepare to plant the seeds once they germinate. Thank...John
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07 Feb 18, Mike (Australia - temperate climate)
A garden bed should be started to be made ready 4-6 weeks before you plant seeds or seedlings in it. Dig it over several times adding compost manures grass clippings lime and some fertiliser if you wish. By the time you plant you should have nice friable soil. By the guide here you should have planted seeds Oct/Nov and have planted seedlings Dec/Jan. So you plant out seedlings 4-6 weeks after they germinate. Give it a go.
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08 Jan 18, Kathy Lather (Australia - sub-tropical climate)
Can you please tell me where I can find this vegetable to try and also the seed to plant. On the Gold Coast thanks
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02 Aug 18, Rhona (Australia - sub-tropical climate)
you can buy green okra in season at the discount fruit & veg at Harbour Town, Gold Coast, probably most large f&v shops. I bought some red okra seeds online at boonieseeds.com.au, they grew really well here last summer
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09 Jan 18, Mike (Australia - sub-tropical climate)
Boondie seeds have it. On the internet.
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02 Jan 18, Margaret (Australia - sub-tropical climate)
I want to plant Okra right now, May be too late. Please advise. thanks
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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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