Growing Okra, also Ladyfinger, gumbo

Abelmoschus esculentus : Malvaceae / the mallow family

Jan F M A M J J A S O N Dec
    S                  
        T              
        P              

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

  • S = Plant undercover in seed trays
  • T = Plant out (transplant) seedlings
  • P = Sow seed
  • 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 (can grow beside): Peppers (Capsicum, Chili), Eggplant (Aubergine)

Your comments and tips

25 Jan 21, Taryn (Australia - sub-tropical climate)
I got mine from Bunnings, i I only planted about 5 plants, but they sure have produced a lot. I have another 12 i just planted, i'll do more in the next few weeks. They produce a lot in Brisbane, so if you need a lot of seeds, you may want a pack from bunnings or ebay, let the first crop go to seed, and next season you have loads of seeds to use?
17 Feb 21, Ben (Australia - sub-tropical climate)
Hi Taryn, when did you plant your seeds? Are you harvesting the fruits already? I've just planted in couple of seeds (I'm in Brisbane). Am i to late? Ta
13 Dec 20, Peter Widdows (Australia - temperate climate)
I want very much to get enough seeds to put on a property but I'd like to know where I can get them there are a lot of people out here who have diabetes and I've heard that the seeds are even good to eat and helps people who have diabetes so please where can I buy them
13 Dec 20, Pete (Australia - temperate climate)
Im interested in growing the okra plant where can I get the seeds from is it true you can eat the whole plant and is there anyone growing them in Australia as produce
01 Feb 21, Maxine dean (USA - Zone 8b climate)
I have penty of seed...send your address and I will send you some
02 Dec 23, Mazzy (Australia - sub-tropical climate)
This response is probably a bit late but laws are quite strict in Australia about importing seeds from overseas due to the risk of introducing plant diseases.
13 Dec 20, Peter Widdows (Australia - temperate climate)
Where would I be able to get the seeds to grow the okra plant from whats the best way to grow the plant and are they already being grown in Australia as a food source
18 Feb 21, Bert (Australia - temperate climate)
I got my seeds from The Reject Shop. Prevent mildew on okra plants 1 Part Milk 9 Part water 1 tsp bicarb
14 Dec 20, (Australia - temperate climate)
Internet seed selling companies. Maybe sold at capital city f &v markets. Google if commercially grown in aus.
31 Oct 20, Surinder (New Zealand - sub-tropical climate)
Please confirm from where to get okra seeds in Hamilton
Showing 31 - 40 of 366 comments

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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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