Okra is an easy fun plant to grow!
Planting Okra
Sow Okra seeds in full sun and average, well-worked soil after danger of frost.
Grow okra in a different place every year to avoid problems with pests and diseases.
Prepare the bed by turning the soil under to a depth of 8 inches. Level with a rake to remove clumps of grass and stones.
Plant 3-4 seeds every 12 inches in rows 36 inches apart.
Cover with 1 inch of fine soil.
Seedlings should emerge in 14-21 days.
Thin to strongest seedling per group when plants are 1-2 inches high.
How to Grow Okra
Keep weeds under control during the growing season. Weeds compete with plants for water, space and nutrients, so control them by either cultivating often or use a mulch to prevent their seeds from germinating. Avoid disturbing the soil around the plants when weeding.
Keep plants well-watered during dry periods to promote rapid, uninterrupted growth. Plants need about 1-1 ½ inches of rain per week during the growing season. Use a rain gauge to check to see if you need to add water. It’s best to water with a drip or trickle system that delivers water at low pressure at the soil level. If you water with overhead sprinklers, water early in the day so the foliage has time to dry off before evening, to minimize disease problems. Keep the soil moist but not saturated.
Monitor for pests and diseases. Check with your local Cooperative Extension Service for pest controls recommended for your area.
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Harvest and Preserving
Pick young pods that are 2-3 inches long and harvest them every other day to encourage continuous production. Cut the pods from the stem just above the cap.
Store pods for several days in the refrigerator in a plastic bag.
Pods are delicious steamed, in soups and fried.
Okra may also be stored blanched and frozen.
