How to Grow Okra the Right Way: A Step-by-Step Guide
Okra, which is also called ladies' fingers or bhindi, is easy to grow and does best when it's warm outside. With this step-by-step guide, you'll be able to grow lots of healthy okra plants.
Choose a type of okra that grows well in your area and suits your tastes. Some well-known types are "Burgundy," "Clemson Spineless," and "Baby Bubba."
Choose the Right Variety
1.
When it's warm, okra grows best. When the soil is regularly above 65°F (18°C), you can plant seeds. The best time for this is late spring or early summer.
Pick the Right Time
2.
Pick a spot to plant that gets full sun for at least six to eight hours a day. For okra plants to grow well and make pods, they need a lot of sunshine.
Select a Sunny Location
3.
Pick a spot to plant that gets full sun for at least six to eight hours a day. For okra plants to grow well and make pods, they need a lot of sunshine.
Prepare the Soil
4.
To help the seeds sprout, soak them in water for 12 to 24 hours before planting. Plant the seeds in the ground, about an inch deep, 12 to 18 inches apart, in rows that are 3 feet apart.
Plant the Seeds
5.
To help the seeds sprout, soak them in water for 12 to 24 hours before planting. Plant the seeds in the ground, about an inch deep, 12 to 18 inches apart, in rows that are 3 feet apart.
Water Regularly
6.
Put a layer of organic mulch around the plants, like straw or shredded leaves, to keep the soil wet, keep weeds away, and keep the soil's temperature stable.
Mulch Around the Plant
7.
Once or twice during the growth season, use a balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10. You could also use waste or natural fertilizers like worm castings or fish emulsion.
Fertilize as Needed
8.
Keep an eye out for okra pests like stink bugs, flea beetles, and aphids. To get rid of pests, use insecticidal soap, neem oil, or bring in helpful insects like ladybugs.
Monitor for Pests and Diseases
9.
Okra plants can get very tall, so they might need to be staked, especially in windy places. To keep the stems from breaking, tie them gently to a stick with soft ties.
Support the Plants
10.
When the okra pods are 2 to 4 inches long and soft, you can start picking them. By picking the plant often, you encourage it to make more pods. If you want to keep the pods whole, cut them with a sharp knife or shears.
Harvest Regularly
11.
Take off any leaves that are dead or damaged, and prune the plant every so often to let air flow and lower the risk of illnesses.
Prune and Maintain the Plants
12.
To save seeds for next year, let a few pods dry out on the plant after they are fully grown. Get the dried pods and take out the seeds to store them.