Growing Okra, also Ladyfinger, gumbo

View the Okra page

31 Dec 09 skip (Australia - temperate climate)
I have grown Okra for a few years and have had reasonable success. I buy the Clemson spineless seeds and have found a short pre-soaking helps germination. I have had my best success in growing seedlings in late spring (>20C) and kept away from the elements as the plants are whimps when it comes to cold. I plant out in mid-Nov (Adelaide hills). They are very slow at the beginning and you must be patient. I have found the fastest growth occurs when temps are >25C, but they hate dry hot wind. If you are willing to baby the plants with consistent watering (2-3 times/week) with liquid fertiliser (they're very heavy feeders) and get them to approx 12 inches they grow like a weed after that with little care. Pick the pods at approx 3" but discard any over 5" as they are very woody. Good luck
Gardenate App

Put GardenGrow in your pocket. Get our app for iPhone, iPad or Android to add your own plants and record your plantings and harvests

Planting Reminders

Join 60,000+ gardeners who already use GardenGrow and subscribe to the free GardenGrow planting reminders email newsletter.


Home | Vegetables and herbs to plant | Climate zones | About GardenGrow | Contact us | Privacy Policy

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. GardenGrow 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.
We cannot help if you are overrun by giant slugs.