Be sure your plants have plenty of sunshine, at least 6 hours, and are in well drained, slightly acidic to neutral soils (pH 6.5-7.5). As they begin to grow, thin out the stragglers so the sturdier ones can thrive. Okra seeds can be planted in 1” deep hills that are about 18-24” apart. The acidic nature of buttermilk and vinegar help soften its hard seed coat. It is typical to soak seeds in water however some do use buttermilk or a weak vinegar. To plant okra it is best to soak the seeds overnight to improve germination. When planting okra in more temperate climates, this perennial plant becomes an annual and must be replanted each year. If planting later in the season, just be aware that okra’s nemesis is frost. As long as okra is planted about 2 weeks after the last expected frost date, after the soil has had a chance to warm a bit (> 65☏), it will be successful. What makes okra so hearty and grow so prolifically, is that it is drought tolerant, loves the sunshine, and while it prefers warmer climates, it can even be grown in temperate zones. Whichever it is, we do know that okra is a hearty plant that can be planted almost anywhere, and do exceedingly well. Some believe it was first cultivated in Ethiopia or West Africa, while others counter that South Asia has dibs. While okra can be found just about anywhere, its origin is up for debate. From Egypt to England, Brazil to Belgium, people are enjoying all okra has to offer. So by definition, okra is a fruit, and one that can be found in various parts of the world. While there is some question if okra is a fruit or vegetable, it does contain seeds all wrapped up in a nice little package we can eat. Okra is nestled comfortably in the Malvaceae (mallow) family of plants, which also houses hollyhock, cotton, and hibiscus. Lady’s fingers, ochro, kopi arab, bhindi, okro, and gumbo all pseudonyms for that quirky edible seedpod, officially known as Abelmoschus esculentus, that many of us simply call okra.
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