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Okra

Hibiscus esculentus (syn. Abelmoschus esculentus)

INTRODUCTION

Okra, also known as Lady's fingers, Bhindi, and Gambo, is highly valued by some for its edible green fruits. It is a warm-climate plant suited in the UK to greenhouse or polytunnel growing needing heat and full sun to grow, and produces its calcium-rich pods during late summer.

Originating in tropical Africa, Okra is a member of the mallow plant family and although a perennial plant, is usually treated as an annual. Okra tends to be slightly gelatinous and has a characteristic goo about it after cooking, but is useful as a thickener in soups and stews.

Soil Preparation

Okra is a warm-climate crop and can only be grown in the UK undercover in a greenhouse or polytunnel. It may be possible for outdoor cultivation in exceptionally warm summers or in suntraps, but as usual, nothing is guaranteed with British weather. Play safe, move indoors.

Okra can be produced by growing in compost-filled pots (at least 10 litres) grow bags or border soil. If using border soil, enrich with well-rotted manure well in advance. The soil needs to be rich, fertile and well-drained.

Sowing & Planting

Before sowing okra seed, soak in warm water overnight. Sowing can begin in March or April.

Sow seeds into small pots or modules and lightly cover. Maintain temperatures at 16oc in a closed environment such as a heated propagator.

Once seedlings are large enough to handle, pot on into larger pots before moving to the final growing position.

Maintain a warm temperature.

Growing & General Cultivation

Once plants have reached 10 - 15cm tall, transplant them into the final growing position.

As soon as plants reach a height of 60cm (24 inches), remove the growing point to encourage a more bushy plant habit.

Support plants as required with canes or wires.

Keep up with regular watering, especially during hot weather. Feed plants once a week until harvest with a high potash feed.

If growing outside, ensure plants are fully hardened and acclimatised before moving.

Pests & Diseases

Okra is a pretty straightforward crop to grow, as long as it has plenty of warmth.

As with all warm house vegetables/fruit, whiteflies and red spider mites can be a problem. Biological controls are available. See the GrowMad Product Directory for suppliers.