growing and careing of okra or ladysfinger

STEP 1: FROM SEEDS TO PLANTING 

To germinate seeds quickly and effectively,  we suggest soaking the seeds in water for around 8 to 10 hours. Use coco peat-based potting mix for sprouting seeds. Place the seeds around 1.5 to 2-inch depth. It is better to use a seedling tray for the same.  You could cover the seedling tray or pot with a plastic cover for faster germination. Make a few small holes in the cover for air flow. 

 

STEP 2: CHOOSING THE POT/LAND AND SOIL

Select a pot which is at least 12 inch in diameter and bottom diameter is 11 inch. Select a container which has a drainage hole at the bottom which allows excess water to flow out. The pot requires a plate or tray to catch excess water as it drains from the bottom of the pot.

Place the pot in a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. Bendi seeds germinate best when soil temperatures are between 75 and 90 degrees. The pot becomes quite heavy when filled with the watered potting mix so you may find it easier to place the pot in the desired location when it is empty.

Never use soil found around your place for growing, as it lacks in nutrients. If you want to use soil alone check our organic fertilizer else coco peat-based potting mix which holds fertilizer as well as compost content in it. The major advantage of using coco peat-based potting mix is it retains moisture content and you will not have to invest for fertilizer/compost.

STEP 3: WATERING AND TAKING CARE TILL HARVEST

Watering the plant is very important as it’s a source of growth. So, water the plant in a proper proportion regularly. Watering is completely depended on the plant as well as the climate. So make sure the plant never gets dried up and nor watering should be in such a way that water stands around the plant above the soil, well there are drainage holes to prevent excess watering in a container but in the case of land water carefully. Watering from the day of sowing till harvest is a must.

Eliminate weeds when the plants are young, then mulch heavily to prevent more weeds from growing, The first harvest will be ready about 2 months after planting. Harvest the okra when it’s about 2 to 3 inches long. Harvest it every other day.