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Okra (Abelmoschus esulentus)

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Sowing:

Seed Depth:
Germination Soil Temp:
Days to Germinate   
Date to sow Indoors:
Date to sow Outdoors



3/4 inch
80 - 95 Degrees
5 - 14
Not recommended
May
Growing:

pH Range:
Growing Temp:
Spacing:
Watering:
Light:
Nutrient Req's:
Rotation:
Seed Longevity:
6.0 - 7.0
70 - 90 Degrees
12 inches
Low
Full sun
Moderate N, P and K
Avoid Nightshades
Follow Bean or Pea
4 years

Description



Soil


Fertilizer

Planting

Cultivation Care

Companions

Varieties

Harvest



Health Benefits
Okra is a beautiful plant with many ornamental qualities such as texture, shape and color. It is a relative of the hollyhock family and thrives in the heat of the south. There are spineless and spiny varieties, which can complicate harvest and enjoyment.

Okra benefits from a fertile, well-drained soil. Incorporate organic matter to increase texture and moisture holding capacity.

Use compost or a 10-10-10 at 1 1/2 pounds per 100 square foot garden. Fertilize each month after plant begins to grow.

Allow plants enough space to benefit from the sun. Seed and place a shovel full of compost over the seeds and water.

Water only during dry periods.

Lettuce, peppers and eggplant, basil, cucumber, melons, southern peas.

Burgundy, Cajun Delight, Clemson, Cowhorn (Spineless), Dwarf Green (Spineless) and Emerald Green.

Harvest pod when they are about 3 inches long and still tender about 50 days after planting. Wear gloves to protect hands from spines (or hairs). Remove over-ripe pods to keep the plant producing. Okra will not store well so cook fresh and no more than 2 to 3 days after harvest.

Low in calories and a good source of fiber. Provides nutrients such as calcium, folic acid, and vitamin B6 and C.

> Back to the Vegetable Page

Source: UT Extension, PB1578 - Tennessee Master Gardener Handbook
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Programs in agriculture and natural resources, 4-H youth development, family and consumer sciences, and resource development. University of Tennessee Institute
of Agriculture, U.S. Department of Agriculture and county governments cooperating. UT Extension provides equal opportunities in programs and employment
Photo used under Creative Commons from sleepyneko