GROWING OKRA FROM SEED

How to grow Okra from seed

Although the typical northern European climate will be colder that the okra plants native habitat, you can still produce a viable crop. To make the most of the shorter growing season start by sowing the seed under protection indoors.

Once the threat of frosts have passed, harden them off before planting outside.

In warmer temperate climates sow Okra seeds 4 inches apart into rows that are at least two feet apart. Place each seed in to the ground at about ½ inch deep then gently water gently in.

Try and mimic their natural habitat by planting in a well drained and sheltered position with plenty of sun. They will also require plenty of water over the growing period so mulch and fertilize the soil throughout the summer.

Once the seeds have begun to germinate they can be thinned out to about a foot between plants, but always leave the strongest plants in place.

Harvest okra once the seed pods are ripe, they will usually be about three to four inches in length. Check every other day for new okra pods and harvest them quickly as this will encourage the plant to grow more pods.

For related articles click onto:
HOW TO COLLECT, PREPARE AND SAVE OKRA SEED FOR GERMINATION
HOW TO GROW OKRA FROM SEED OUTDOORS