Growing Okra
If there were an official vegetable of Alabama summer heat, okra would make a strong case.
When other crops begin struggling, okra often starts thriving.
When to Plant
For Central Alabama, okra is commonly planted from about April 10 through June 30.
Wait until soil is genuinely warm.
Direct Sow
Okra is easy to direct sow.
Seeds have a hard coat, so some gardeners soak them briefly before planting to speed germination.
Sun and Soil
Okra needs:
- Full sun
- Warm soil
- Good drainage
- Moderate fertility
It tolerates heat extremely well once established.
Spacing
Give plants room because many varieties grow tall and wide.
Watering
Okra is drought tolerant compared with many vegetables, but steady moisture improves production.
Mulch can reduce water stress.
Fertility
Avoid excessive nitrogen.
Too much can produce huge plants with delayed pod production.
Harvest Early and Often
This is the secret.
Pick pods while they are still tender.
Depending on variety and weather, you may need to harvest every day or two.
Once pods become large and woody, they are not pleasant to eat.
Wear Gloves if Needed
Okra leaves and stems can irritate some people’s skin.
Long sleeves and gloves make harvesting more comfortable.
Common Problems
Okra may attract:
- Aphids
- Japanese beetles
- Stink bugs
- Caterpillars
It is generally tougher than many summer crops.
GardenGrowz Tip
If July makes you question whether gardening in Alabama was a good idea, plant okra. It will be out there enjoying itself.
