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

Post a comment or question Display Newest first | Oldest first, Show comments for Australia | for all countries
13 Nov 16, Wendy (Australia - temperate climate)
Where can I buy seedlings or seeds in Brisbane or can I just use the seeds from Okra that I have? Cheers
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18 Nov 16, John (Australia - temperate climate)
you probably won't buy seedlings but seeds are often available at bigger garden centres/nurseries and would definitely be available from Eden Seeds or Green Harvest online. Google them for a catalogue.
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06 Sep 16, Flora (Australia - temperate climate)
Am in Bunbury western Australia is it late to grow okra?
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10 Dec 16, Jaime (Australia - temperate climate)
Hello Flora, I'm in Perth, and I just pop my seeds straight into the garden every year around this time Nov/Dec and they grow and fruit beautifully every time.
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04 Sep 16, Wedad (Australia - temperate climate)
I live in Adelaide when can plant okra Pleasewich month start
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08 Sep 16, Bob Dobbs (Australia - sub-tropical climate)
Now - September - is a good time to start. Sow your seeds now. Bob
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15 Apr 16, faye pitt (Australia - sub-tropical climate)
can I plant seeds now or am I too late.
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18 Apr 16, Bob Dobbs (Australia - sub-tropical climate)
Hi Faye, You are too late now. Sow your seeds in the beginning of September, so that your plants grow into summer. All the best, Bob
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10 Apr 16, Ami (Australia - temperate climate)
Hello... does anyone know where i can buy okra fruit in Melbourne?
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24 Apr 16, Cliffy (Australia - tropical climate)
You can't beat Home Grown Okra for flavor and the cost. You can purchase from Coles Occasionally but will cost around $10 Per/KG. Also try the Asian Supermarkets, they will also have.
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Hi Taryn, when did you plant your seeds? Are you harvesting the fruits already? I've just planted in couple of seeds (I'm in Brisbane). Am i to late? Ta

- Ben

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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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