Growing Okra, also Ladyfinger, gumbo

Abelmoschus esculentus : Malvaceae / the mallow family

Jan F M A M J J A S O N Dec
    S                  
        T              
        P              

(Best months for growing Okra in USA - Zone 5a regions)

  • S = Plant undercover in seed trays
  • T = Plant out (transplant) seedlings
  • P = Sow seed
  • Grow in seed trays, and plant out in 4-6 weeks. Sow seed at a depth approximately three times the diameter of the seed. Best planted at soil temperatures between 68°F and 95°F. (Show °C/cm)
  • Space plants: 14 - 24 inches apart
  • Harvest in 11-14 weeks.
  • Compatible with (can grow beside): Peppers (Capsicum, Chili), Eggplant (Aubergine)

Your comments and tips

Post a comment or question Display Newest first | Oldest first, Show comments for USA | for all countries
18 Jan 12, jossey (Australia - temperate climate)
I bought okra seeds from Bunnings warehouse. good luck
Reply or Post a new comment
03 Dec 11, Hank (Australia - sub-tropical climate)
What markets on the north coast of NSW are selling okra. Australia just doesn't know about okra! :)
Reply or Post a new comment
02 Dec 11, Marlene (Australia - temperate climate)
Where can I purchase okra seeds in Perth.Can't import them due to restrictions.
Reply or Post a new comment
30 Dec 11, julie (Australia - temperate climate)
Eden seeds in Queensland.
Reply or Post a new comment
03 Dec 11, John G (Australia - temperate climate)
Got mine from bunnings. Soaked them in wet tissues in door for abt 4-5 days for the seeds to swell. Plant the seeds in garden bed or seed trays in sunny position and keep moist. I was told ocra loves sun light. The hotternthe better.
Reply or Post a new comment
10 Dec 11, Marlene (Australia - arid climate)
Do you know anyone in Perth who is willing to share a few okra seeds.Buntings doesn't have any.I am also looking for bitter gourd also known as karela.
Reply or Post a new comment
13 Nov 11, Darryl (Australia - temperate climate)
Will okra grow well in southern Tasmania?
Reply or Post a new comment
14 Nov 11, Chris (Australia - arid climate)
It will be a challenge. Okra needs a long hot growing season (best in tropical/sub-tropical QLD, southern US)
Reply or Post a new comment
06 Nov 11, Reg (Australia - temperate climate)
Hello, i planted seeds in a small seedling tray, its already been 5 weeks and nothins is happening please help
Reply or Post a new comment
13 Nov 11, Wauker (Australia - temperate climate)
I planted some 6 seeds (Fothergill) straight into the ground with a skewer next to them and they have all come up. Placed some of tha torange netting (from bag of oranges) over them to stop the birds and then snail bait. They'll all coming along fine.
Reply or Post a new comment
Showing 291 - 300 of 366 comments
See comments for all plants

Ask a question or post a comment or advice about Okra

Please provide your email address if you are hoping for a reply


All comments are reviewed before displaying on the site, so your posting will not appear immediately

Gardenate App

Put Gardenate 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 Gardenate and subscribe to the free Gardenate planting reminders email newsletter.


Home | Vegetables and herbs to plant | Climate zones | About Gardenate | 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. Gardenate 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.