Organic Okra - Growing and Seed Saving Info
Downloadable Version of Okra Growing Info
Okra is a heat-loving vegetable in the Malvaceae, or mallow family,
which also includes cotton, cacao and hibiscus. It is very popular in the Southeast US, where it is often fried or cooked in stews
for its thickening effect.
Okra prefers warm, well-drained soil with good fertility. Generally
okra will do well anywhere corn does.
½” in pots or light soil, 1” deep in heavy soil.
About 7,500 seeds/lb
Direct seeding: 78'/oz., 13 oz./1,000', 12 lb./acre at 6 seeds/ft. in
rows 36" apart. Transplants average 155 pots or cells per oz, 2,500/lb at
3 seeds per cell.
Okra prefers warm conditions. In short-season areas, start plants 6
weeks before transplanting (3-4 weeks after the last frost date). Plant two
seeds per pot and clip the weaker seedling. Keep temperatures in the 80-90°F
range for quick germination. Transplant carefully to avoid disturbing roots,
and cover with row cover when frost is possible. In long-season climates okra can be
direct-seeded starting in early spring when air temperatures are at least 60°F.
Soak or nick seeds to encourage germination and sow seeds 3” apart in rows 3’
apart, thinning seedlings to 18-24”.
Mulch plants when 6” tall to keep down weeds and retain moisture.
Okra requires warm weather to thrive. Protect with row cover if frost
Okra is generally drought-tolerant but will be much more productive if
evenly watered. Irrigation is recommended during dry periods.
Very heat-tolerant plant thrives in hot weather, especially with
Harvest begins around 50-60 days after planting. Pods should be harvested
daily when they are about the size of a finger and easy to cut from the stalk.
Plants will continue to produce heavily as long as they are regularly picked.
Prickly pods can cause skin irritation; wear gloves or plant a spineless
variety. Do not allow pods to over-ripen on the stalk, they will become tough
and the plant will stop producing.
Pods have a short storage life. They will keep for 7-10 days in a
perforated plastic bag or tote at 45-50°F.
Pest and Disease Resistance
Generally problem-free. Hand pick stinkbugs that appear. Fusarium wilt
is occasionally a problem in hot climates; crop rotation is best remedy. Remove
and destroy affected plants.
Okra seed is easy to save, however it is insect-pollinated and thus
needs ¼ to 1 mile of distance from other okras. Allow last pods to fully dry on
the plant, until you can hear the seeds rattling inside, then open the pods to
release the seeds. Seed is viable for 4 years.