Closely related to cotton, Okra is a Mallow-family crop popular in Southern American cuisine and known for its unique texture. This texture comes from the mucilage produced by its sugar content.
Most often used to make thick soups like Gumbo, Okra is also delicious served over rice or lightly sauteed 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)
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.
