Okra — FarmPal

A heat-loving southern staple. Thrives where other crops wilt.

Sun
full
Water
moderate
Spacing
12-18 inches apart
Days to Harvest
50-65 days from transplant
Planting Depth
1 inch deep

Companion Plants

Peppers
Eggplant
Sweet potatoes
Melons

Avoid Planting Near

Nematode-susceptible plants

Common Pests

Aphids
Corn earworm
Stink bugs
Japanese beetles

Diseases to Watch

Verticillium wilt
Fusarium wilt
Root-knot nematodes

Growing Tips

  • •Needs HOT weather wait until soil is 65°F+
  • •Soak seeds overnight or nick with file for faster germination
  • •Related to hibiscus gorgeous flowers!
  • •Wear gloves when harvesting tiny spines irritate skin
  • •Cut rather than pull pods to avoid damaging plant

Harvesting

  • •Harvest when pods are 2-4 inches (every 2 days!)
  • •Larger pods get tough and fibrous
  • •Use sharp knife or pruners
  • •Wear long sleeves plant has irritating hairs
Storage
Refrigerator 3-5 days. Freeze, pickle, or dehydrate.

Varieties

Clemson Spineless
Classic. Reduced spines. Reliable heavy producer.
Burgundy
Beautiful red pods turn green when cooked. Ornamental.
Star of David
Heirloom Israeli variety. Stays tender longer.
Jambalaya
Compact dwarf. Container-friendly. Early.