Okra usually grows best in warm weather climates, but you can also grow it in the spring/summer as well! Okra is a healthy vegetable that's packed with vitamin A and therefore adds a dose of health to any meal. Today we'll show you how to grow okra from seeds with our easy to follow gardening guide.

How to Grow Okra

young okra plant

Planting Okra:

  • Start okra seeds indoors in peat pots 3-4 weeks before the last frost date in spring.
  • Keep the pots in full sunlight during this time.
  • Once the soil temperature reaches 65-70F, you can transplant your okra seedlings outdoors.
  • You can speed up the seedlings' growth by soaking the seeds in tepid water overnight.
  • Plant your okra seedlings in fertile, well-drained soil and choose a spot with full sunlight.
  • Plant 1/2 inch deep and 12-18 inches apart.
  • Space the rows 3-4 feet apart as okra plants can grow to be quite tall.

Caring for Okra Plants:

okra plant

  • Mulch heavily and pick any weeds from around their area, especially when they are young.
  • The layer of mulch should be about 4-8 inches high.
  • Apply a liquid fertilizer once a month.
  • Once seedlings are about 3 inches tall, thin them so that they are 10-18 inches apart.
  • Keep the plants watered well during the summer months, making sure they get at least 1 inch of water per week.

Harvesting Okra:

  • Two months after planting your okra, your first harvest should be ready.
  • Harvest okra every other day, once it is about 2-3 inches long.
  • Use a knife to cut the stems just above the cap.
  • When cutting okra, you should always wear gloves as most varieties are covered in tiny spines.

Happy Planting!

How to Grow Okra

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