Plant okra

In the garden, the plant thrives in warm to hot conditions, providing a reliable harvest of okra pods at the peak of summer when some other vegies in the patch can no longer stand the heat. You are more likely to find okra seed than seedlings at your garden centre, so if you can’t pick up a punnet, grab a packet of seed.

Okra seeds have a hard coat, so soak them in water overnight before planting. Sow seeds directly in the ground 2cm deep and 45cm apart. Drop two seeds into each hole, and if they both germinate, remove the weaker one. Alternatively, start seed in multicell punnets filled with a premium seed-raising mix. This is a good option if it’s still cool where you are, because you can place the punnets inside on a warm, sunny windowsill. Keep the mix moist, and the seeds should germinate in about 12 days.

Okra likes full sun and a well-drained soil that has been enriched with compost. Originating in arid areas, the plant isn’t particularly demanding of water or nutrients, but it won’t say no to a regular drink and the occasional feed.

The pods get a bad rap for being a bit slimy when cooked. To avoid this, pick them when young and small, dry them thoroughly after washing (so they don’t steam and become slimy), and cook them in small batches using high heat.

Discover more edible plants to grow in your garden by visiting our planting guide.

Header image credit: iStock

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