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Growing Okra, also Ladyfinger, gumbo

(Abelmoschus esculentus)

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
    S   P              

(Best months for planting Okra in USA - Zone 5a regions)

S = Plant undercover in seed trays. P = Plant direct in garden where they are to grow.


  • Grow in seed trays, and plant out in 4-6 weeks. Sow seed at a depth approximately three times the diameter of the seed. Best planted at soil temperatures between 20°C and 35°C. (Show °F/in)
  • Space plants: 35 - 60 cm apart
  • Harvest in 11-14 weeks.
  • Compatible with: Peppers (Capsicum, Chili), Eggplant (Aubergine)
  • Okra on flowering plant

In warm districts okra can be sown in garden beds. Raise seedlings in a similar way to capsicums - warmth is essential. Pick pods within a week of flowers opening - at about 5 - 8 cm long. Pods become tough and inedible if left too long.

Pods have a high gum content so do not appeal to everyone.

Culinary hints - cooking and eating Okra

Use pods fresh or dried in soups or casseroles or as a boiled vegetable.


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Have you had any issues with bugs i.e caterpillars etc. I have 8 plants and they are around 3 months old, however largely affected by bugs, even the fruits. Any suggestions? Cheers

- -Sydney


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This planting guide is a general reference intended for home gardeners. We recommend that you take into account your local conditions in making planting decisions. Gardenate is not a farming or commercial advisory service. For specific advice, please contact your local plant suppliers, gardening groups, or agricultural department. The information on this site is presented in good faith, but we take no responsibility as to the accuracy of the information provided.

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