Closely related to cotton, this Mallow-family crop is known for its unique texture and popularity in Southern American cuisine. If you're a fan of Gumbo soup, read on to find out how to grow Okra, its star ingredient.
Okra is also delicious served over rice or lightly sautéed for a less “slimy” consistency. Rich in vitamins and minerals, it is a healthy crop to grow in the garden and while it is perennial, it does not tolerate winter well in colder growing zones.
Growing okra in GardenSoxx® | Plant Family: Malvaceae (Mallow)
Different Varieties of Okra
While Okra is technically a perennial, it may not survive harsh winters in colder climates. Looking through the different varieties of Okra available, it is important to choose the best okra variety for your growing zone if you want to be successful with this crop.
One of the best-selling okra varieties is the Clemson Spineless, loved for its high yields and adaptability to varying climates. This variety grows well in the summer heat but can also withstand cooler temperatures if necessary.
A winner among the quick-growing red okra varieties, the Red Burgundy has a subtly sweet flavor and is more tender than some other varieties. The bright yellow flowers produced by this plant will also attract bees to your garden.
Early-growing and ideal for smaller gardens, the pale green Blondy Okra variety can produce a harvest in as little as 2 months. Sow this high-producing variety directly into your GardenSoxx.
For a much larger fruit with maximum crunch, the Cow Horn Okra variety can grow pods up to 10” long. This variety is popular for pickling, and thrives in the warmer growing zones.
Nutritional Information For Okra
Nutritional Facts - per 100/g
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 33 | - |
| Total Fat | 0.2 g | - |
| Sodium | 7 mg | - |
| Potassium | 299 mg | - |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.2 g | - |
| Sugar | 1.5 g | - |
| Protein | 1.9 g | - |
| Vitamin C | - | 36% |
| Iron | - | 3% |
| Magnesium | - | 14% |
| Calcium | - | 6% |
How to Grow Okra in Your GardenSoxx®
Okra can be sown directly outdoors or seeds can be started indoors a few weeks before the final spring frost. If planting outdoors, be sure to cover the seedlings if colder weather is predicated to protect them from freezing. Plant seeds 1 inch deep and about 12 inches apart.
Okra Seed to Harvest Time: Okra can start producing a crop about 60 days after planting and will continue doing so over the course of 2-3 months.
How to Harvest Okra
Harvest pods when the pods are 3-4 inches long, cutting them just above the stem with a sharp knife. As you harvest pods, more flowers will appear and produce new ones to allow for a continuous harvest throughout the season.
