Quick note
Okra , a warm - season veg recognise for itsedible greenish pod , is a valuable addition to any home garden . Growing okra is relatively simple , but understand the works ’s specific requirement is crucial for success . This comprehensive guide will bring home the bacon you withdetailed instructionson how to establish okra plant , ensuring a bountiful crop of this nutritious veg .
Selecting the Right Location
Okra expand in well - drained soilthat is plentiful inorganic issue . Choose a gay location with at least 6 hours of unmediated sunlight per day . The grease should have a pH between 6.0 and 6.8 .
Preparing the Soil
Before embed Abelmoschus esculentus , remediate the soil with plenty of compost or well - waste manure . This willimprove soil fertilityand drain . you could also add abalanced fertilizerto furnish all-important nutrients for the plants .
Starting Seeds
Okra seeds can be begin indoors 6 - 8 weeks before the last spring frost . Sow the seeds 1/2inch deepin a seed - starting mixture . Keep the soil moist and render deal of light . Once the seedlings have developed their first set oftrue leaves , they can be transplant alfresco .
Transplanting Seedlings
Transplant gumbo seedlings out of doors when they are 6 - 8inches talland thesoil temperaturehas attain at least 65 ° F . Space the plant 12 - 18 inches apart in rows that are 3 - 4 feet apart . H2O theplants deeplyafter transplanting .
Watering
Okra plants require consistent wet , especially during hot anddry weather condition . Water theplants deeplyat the base , stave off getting water supply on the leaves . Water more frequently during red-hot , juiceless spells .
Fertilizing
fertilise gumbo plants every 3 - 4 weeks with abalanced fertilizer . apply a plant food that is gamy in nitrogen and potassium . Avoid over - fertilizing , as it can conduct toexcessive foliage growthat the expense of fruit production .
Mulching
Mulch around okra plants with straw , compost , or shredded foliage . Mulch help oneself keep back moisture , suppress weeds , and regulate soil temperature .
Pollination
Okra flowers are ego - fecund , but they rely on louse for pollination . Toattract pollinators , plant companion plantssuch as marigolds , zinnias , or sunflowers .
Harvesting
Okra pods are ready to glean when they are 3 - 4 inches retentive and have abright dark-green color . Use a sharp knife to trim back the seedpod from the plant . Harvestokra podsregularly to boost continued production .
Troubleshooting
The Final Harvest
As thegrowing seasoncomes to an destruction , theokra plantswill begin toproduce fewer pods . permit the last few pod to mature on the plant and collect the seeds for next planting . stash away the seeds in a nerveless , dry blank space until spring .
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I water okra plants?
Water Hibiscus esculentus plants profoundly at the base , avoiding get water on the leaves . H2O more ofttimes during blistering , dry spells .
What is the best time to plant okra?
The best metre toplant okrais after the lastspring frostwhen thesoil temperaturehas touch at least 65 ° F .
How long does it take for okra to mature?
Okra pods are quick to harvest when they are 3 - 4inches longand have abright unripe color . It takes about 50 - 60 days from engraft to harvest .
