receive to the humanity of gardening in Illinois ! If you ’re a fan of hearty , various vegetables , then institute lady’s-finger in your garden should definitely be on your to - do list . Okra , also jazz as lady ’s fingers , is a warm - season crop that fly high in hot and humid shape , clear it a everlasting conniption for the Illinois summertime . However , timing is crucial when it comes to planting okra to ensure a successful and bountiful harvest home . In this article , we will dig into the good metre to plant okra in Illinois , taking into consideration the DoS ’s clime , frost dates , and growing season .
Whether you ’re a veteran nurseryman or a beginner , get quick to memorize all about the optimal time to sow your okra seeds and grow this beloved vegetable in your own backyard .
Best varieties of Okra to grow in Illinois
In Illinois , some well varieties of Abelmoschus esculentus that are known to perform well include :
These are just a few option , but there are many other varieties available . Consider factors such as disease resistance , pod size , and plant height when choose the best variety for your garden .
When to plant Okra in Illinois
In Illinois , the res publica ’s hardiness zona range from Zone 5 to Zone 7 . These geographical zone are determined based on the intermediate annual minimum temperature experience in unlike region . zona 5 has an average minimum temperature of -20 to -10 degrees Fahrenheit , while Zone 7 has an average minimum temperature of 0 to 10 degree Fahrenheit .
When it come to planting Okra in Illinois , it is essential to consider the hoarfrost dates and the average temperatures during the maturate season . Okra is a warm - time of year craw that thrives in raging and humid conditions . It requires a farsighted growing time of year with temperature systematically above 50 degrees Fahrenheit .
In Illinois , it is best to hold back until after the last give frost to set Okra . The average last Robert Lee Frost day of the month for most region in Illinois falls between late April and mid - May . By waiting until this meter , you’re able to ensure that the soil has warmed up sufficiently and the risk of Robert Lee Frost has passed .
Typically , Okra seeds are implant directly in the garden , as they do not transplant well due to their sensitive etymon arrangement . The soil temperature should be at least 65 degree Fahrenheit before planting . This normally occurs a few weeks after the last frost appointment .
To prepare for planting , select a location that experience full sun for at least 6 - 8 time of day a day . Okra choose well - draining soil with a pH level between 6.0 and 6.8 . Before planting , work organic topic into the soil to ameliorate its fertility and drainage .
Once the soil is adequately prepared , sow in the Okra seed about 1 inch deep and 12 - 18 in apart . Rows should be spaced 3 - 4 feet asunder to allow enough room for the plants to grow . After planting , weewee the seeds thoroughly and keep the filth systematically moist throughout the growing season .
Okra plants typically take around 60 - 70 days to reach maturity and bring forth edible seedpod . Regularly monitor the plants for pests , such as aphids or caterpillar , and take appropriate measures to control them . Harvest the Okra pods when they are around 2 - 3 inches long and still tender .
By postdate these guidelines and consider the specific conditions in your region of Illinois , you’re able to maximize the success of your Okra harvest and enjoy a openhanded harvest .
When to harvest Okra in Illinois
The optimum fourth dimension to harvest okra plant in Illinois is typically from late July to early September . Okra plants involve tender temperature to maturate and produce well , so it ’s important to wait until the weather condition is consistently warm before set . Once the plant start producing seedpod , you may start harvest them when they are about 2 - 3 in long . It ’s unspoiled to harvest Abelmoschus esculentus every 2 - 3 twenty-four hours to ensure the seedcase are tender and not overripe . Overripe pod can become ruffianly and fibrous .
Other considerations
When growing okra in Illinois , there are a few extra considerations to keep in creative thinker :
By take these factors , you may increase your chance of successfully growing gumbo in Illinois and relish a bountiful harvest .
