How to Grow Okra in an EarthBox

Purchase okra seeds. Recommended varieties include Annie Oakley, Clemson Spineless, Lee and Cajun Delight. Do not use seeds stored longer than 4 years since they may not germinate. Purchase a well-draining container in which to grow okra. Okra needs about 1 foot of growing space for each plant grown.

Soak okra seeds overnight in a damp paper towel or water. Soaking the seeds aids the germination process.

Prepare the container with loose, potting soil. Work organic matter into the top portion of the soil ensuring a nutrient-dense environment. Place the container in full-sun exposure for best results.

Sow okra seeds into the soil 1 inch deep and about 1 foot apart. Water lightly but frequently until seedlings appear. Do not plant okra seeds before the ground has warmed to 65 degrees Fahrenheit, or you risk killing the seeds. Okra should be planted once daytime temperatures average 75 to 90 degrees F for a successful germination and harvest. Frost quickly blackens the plant.

Harvest okra pods once they reach between 2 and 3 inches in length. Do no wait until the pods are any larger to harvest, as larger pods quickly become woody and fibrous. Okra is typically ready for harvest in 60 to 70 days depending on weather conditions and variety grown. Okra pods continue to grow rapidly after the first picking and should be harvested every two days for best results. Okra will produce until the first frost, which quickly kills it.