When it come to planting gumbo , the timing is crucial for successful growth . The idealistic sentence to plant okra is in the spring or early summertime , once the danger of frost has passed . This is because Hibiscus esculentus boom in warm weather and frost can damage or down the vernal plants .

For those living in northerly mood where the rise season is poor , it is recommend to start okra indoors about four to six weeks prior to the last hoar date . This permit the plants to get a head start and be ready for transplanting once the conditions warm up .

I remember one spring when I decided to render growing okra in my garden . I had heard that it could be a ambitious plant to produce , but I was determined to give it a try . I started the seeds indoors in belated wintertime , around February , and kept them under grow lights to provide them with enough light and warmth . By the clip the last freeze date approached , my okra seedling were strong and healthy , ready to be imbed outside .

Before planting okra , it ’s authoritative to pick out a suited location in your garden . Okra plant can hit a height of 6 feet , so it ’s indispensable to choose an area where their tall stature wo n’t fill in or hinder the emergence of other plants . to boot , gumbo prefer full sun , so pick a daub that receive at least 6 - 8 hours of direct sunlight daily .

When the fourth dimension comes to plant the okra seedlings outside , verify the stain is fond enough . Okra thrives in soil temperatures of around 70 - 95 ° F ( 21 - 35 ° C ) . If the land is still too cool , the plants may clamber to establish themselves . To warm up the soil , you may use black credit card mulch or row cover charge to immobilize passion and produce a favourable surround for the okra .

Once the land is warm enough , dig a hole for each seedling , realize sure to space them about 12 - 18 column inch apart . lady’s-finger plants need room to spread out and air circulation to keep disease . Gently place the seedling in the holes and comprehend the base with soil , pressing it down lightly to ensure good contact .

After plant , it ’s crucial to provide adequate water to the gumbo plant . They favour consistently damp dirt , but avoid overwatering , as this can lead to base rot . Mulching around the base of the plants can serve retain moisture and suppress green goddess .

As the okra plant grow , they will get producing beautiful hibiscus - comparable flowers , which will finally give path to the eatable pods . Harvesting the pod when they are young and tender , around 3 - 4 in long , will yield the best flavor and grain . check into the plants on a regular basis and reap the cod every few days to keep the output move .

The best clock time to plant okra is in the spring or early summer , after the danger of frost has passed . jump the seed indoors in northern climates can give the works a head start . Choose a sunny emplacement with well - enfeeble soil and provide adequate weewee throughout the produce season . With right caution and attention , you’re able to enjoy a bountiful harvest of pleasant-tasting okra pod .

Caroline Bates