When to Plant Okra in Georgia

Georgia Frost Dates

• No matter what your planting method, expected spring frost dates are the most crucial element when planning your okra patch. If you live in mountainous, northwestern Georgia -- which experiences lower overall temperatures than the rest of the state -- the last frost date for the area is typically in late March to early April. A coastal, central area such as Savannah has an average last frost date in mid-March. The warmest part of the state, along the Georgia-Florida border, generally sees its last danger of frost anytime between mid-February and mid-March. But because weather conditions fluctuate from year to year, your local extension service is the best source for current predictions.

Direct Seeding

• To ensure the best possible germination for seeds planted outside, wait until the soil temperature has warmed to a minimum of 65 degrees Fahrenheit and air temperatures are 70 degrees Fahrenheit or higher. A soil thermometer is an invaluable tool, along with the more familiar air thermometer. In general, direct-seeded okra does best when planted four weeks after the last expected frost date of spring. For Georgia gardeners, this means between mid-March and early May, depending upon the area of the state. Plant seeds in full sun, 1/2 to 1 inch deep and 6 inches apart. When seeds are about 3 inches tall, thin them to at least 12 inches apart.

Indoor Planting

• To get a jump on the season, plant okra indoors about three to four weeks before your area's last average spring frost date. In Georgia, this period would be mid-January in the warmest, southernmost regions to early March in the cooler, high elevations. Plant seeds on your sunniest windowsill or under grow lights, setting the seeds in individual peat pots. Plant at a depth of 1/2 inch. When it is time to transplant in the garden -- three to four weeks after the last expected frost date -- set the okra seedlings into the ground at least 12 inches apart.

Early Direct Seeding

• You may direct seed okra into the garden before the last expected frost date if you take steps to protect the emerging seedlings. A grow tunnel, which is a kind of portable greenhouse set up over a garden bed, works well for early plantings. Remove the frame and plastic of the grow tunnel once the soil temperature reaches 65 degrees Fahrenheit. Alternatively, sow okra seed in the ground under a grow tunnel or cold frame that you use for starting seedlings, and transplant the seedlings into their regular garden bed three to four weeks after the last frost date. Plant seeds at the same time you would when starting them indoors -- three to four weeks before the last frost date in your area of Georgia.