Abelmoschus esculentus
TAXONOMY
FamilyMalvaceae
GenusAbelmoschus
Zone10
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Abelmoschus esculentus, commonly known as okra or lady's finger, is an annual plant in the family Malvaceae. It is native to tropical and subtropical regions and is widely cultivated for its edible green seed pods. The plant thrives in seasonally dry tropical climates and is known for its rapid growth and high yield.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Okra
Abelmoschus bammia
Abelmoschus longifolius
Abelmoschus officinalis
Abelmoschus praecox
Abelmoschus tuberculatus
Abelmoschus tuberculatus var. deltoidefolius
Hibiscus aculeatus
Hibiscus bammia
Hibiscus esculentus
Hibiscus esculentus var. praecox
Hibiscus esculentus var. textilis
Hibiscus ficifolius
Hibiscus hispidissimus
Hibiscus longifolius
Hibiscus praecox
OVERVIEW
WaterMoist
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature25° C
Humidity60%
GDD900
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
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DETAILS
Care Instructions
Okra requires full sunlight and warm temperatures to grow optimally. It should be watered regularly but allowed to dry out partially between waterings. The plant prefers moderate humidity and should be protected from cold temperatures. Regular pruning can help maintain its shape and encourage more fruit production.Harvest
Abelmoschus esculentus, commonly known as okra, should be harvested when the pods are young and tender, typically 50-70 days after planting. The ideal time to harvest is when the pods are 2-4 inches long, as they can become tough and fibrous if left to mature too long. Harvesting should be done every 1-2 days to ensure pods are picked at their peak. Use a sharp knife or pruning shears to cut the pods from the plant, taking care not to damage the plant. It's also advisable to wear gloves and long sleeves during harvest to avoid skin irritation from the plant's tiny spines.Soil
Okra grows best in well-draining loamy soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be kept moderately moist but not waterlogged. A slightly acidic to neutral pH is ideal for this plant.Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with a nutrient composition of 5-10-10. Fertilize the plant every few weeks during the growing season to support its rapid growth and fruit production.Repotting
Okra can be repotted if necessary, especially if it outgrows its current container. Repotting should be done in the early stages of growth. Ensure the new pot has good drainage and is filled with a suitable soil mix.Propagation
Okra is typically propagated from seeds. Sow the seeds directly into the soil after the last frost date. The seeds should be planted about 1 inch deep and spaced adequately to allow for growth.Pruning
Pruning is beneficial for okra to remove dead or damaged leaves and to encourage more fruit production. Prune the plant regularly during the growing season to maintain its shape and health.Toxicity
Okra is not toxic to pets or humans. All parts of the plant are generally safe to handle and consume.Additional
Okra is a versatile vegetable that can be used in a variety of dishes. It is known for its mucilaginous texture, which can be reduced by cooking methods such as frying or roasting. Regular harvesting of the pods can encourage continuous production.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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