How To Grow And Care For A Okra Plant

Okra, oh how do I love thee? Let me count the ways! You are slimy, sticky, and downright hilarious looking. But don't let that deter you from growing this wonderfully nutritious plant. In this post, I'll show you how to grow okra, and everything you need to know about taking care of it. First things first, let's talk about the image above. That's what okra looks like when it grows up. Weird, right? But trust me, it's worth it. Just look at that gorgeous green color! You can practically hear the crunch when you take a bite. Plant Attributes Okra is a warm weather crop and thrives in areas with hot summers. It's a member of the mallow family, which also includes hibiscus and cotton. It's an annual plant that can reach up to 6 feet in height, so make sure you have enough space for it to grow. Plant Care Okra needs full sun and well-draining soil to grow, so make sure you plant it in a spot where it can get at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. It's a thirsty plant, so make sure you water it regularly, especially during the hot summer months. Pruning Okra doesn't need a lot of pruning, but you can remove any dead leaves or branches to help improve air circulation and reduce the risk of disease. Propagation Okra can be started from either seeds or transplants. If you're starting from seeds, you can either sow them directly into the soil once the temperatures have warmed up, or start them indoors 2-3 weeks before the last frost. Potting & Repotting If you're growing okra in containers, make sure you use a pot that's at least 12 inches in diameter and 12 inches deep. Fill the pot with well-draining soil and make sure it gets plenty of sunlight. Common Pests & Plant Disease Like all plants, okra can be susceptible to pests and disease. The most common pests that attack okra are aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. You can treat these pests with neem oil or insecticidal soap. Common Problems One of the most common problems with okra is poor fruit set. This can be caused by a number of factors, including poor soil fertility, lack of pollinators, or high temperatures. To improve fruit set, make sure you fertilize your okra plants regularly and plant flowers nearby to attract pollinators. In summary, if you're a fan of slimy, sticky vegetables, then growing okra is perfect for you! With a little bit of care and attention, you'll have a bountiful harvest in no time. So go ahead and get your hands dirty and start growing some okra today! How to Grow Okra | how-tos | DIY