Cow Horn is a robust okra variety known for its tall, vigorous plants that can grow up to 6-7 ft. high. It produces long, slender, ribbed pods that can reach 10-12 inches in length, but they are best harvested when young at 3-5 inches for optimal tenderness and flavor. This variety thrives in diverse conditions and is well-suited for those who enjoy abundant harvests of large, flavorful pods.
Okra Growing Guide
Outdoor Sowing (Directly in the Garden)
- Timing: Sow okra seeds outdoors after the last frost date, once the soil has warmed to at least 70°F (21°C), typically in late spring.
- Location: Choose a sunny spot with at least 6â€"8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Okra thrives in warm temperatures and well-draining, nutrient-rich soil.
- Soil Preparation: Loosen the soil to a depth of 8â€"12 inches and incorporate compost or well-rotted manure to improve fertility and drainage. Okra grows best in slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH of 6.0â€"7.5.
- Planting Seeds:
- Soak seeds in warm water for 12â€"24 hours before planting to speed up germination.
- Sow seeds 1/2â€"1 inch deep, spacing them 12â€"18 inches apart in rows.
- Space rows 3â€"4 feet apart for proper airflow and ease of harvesting.
- Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist until germination, which typically takes 7â€"10 days. Once established, water deeply and consistently to promote healthy growth.
Indoor Sowing (Starting Seeds Indoors)
- Timing: Start okra seeds indoors 4â€"6 weeks before the last expected frost date for an earlier harvest.
- Containers: Use biodegradable pots or deep containers to minimize root disturbance during transplanting.
- Planting:
- Soak seeds in warm water for 12â€"24 hours before planting.
- Sow seeds 1/2â€"1 inch deep, placing 1â€"2 seeds per pot.
- Cover lightly with soil mix and water gently.
- Germination:
- Maintain a temperature of 75â€"85°F (24â€"29°C) for optimal germination.
- Expect seedlings to emerge within 7â€"10 days.
- Transplanting: Transplant seedlings outdoors when soil temperatures are consistently above 70°F (21°C) and plants are 4â€"6 inches tall. Space plants 12â€"18 inches apart in rows.
General Care Tips for Okra
- Sunlight: Provide full sun with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Okra thrives in warm, sunny conditions.
- Watering: Water deeply and consistently to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Mulch around plants to retain soil moisture and reduce weeds.
- Fertilizing: Okra is a moderate feeder. Enrich the soil with compost at planting and side-dress with a balanced fertilizer every 4â€"6 weeks during the growing season.
- Weeding: Keep the area weed-free to reduce competition for nutrients and moisture. Mulching helps suppress weeds and maintain soil moisture.
- Supporting Plants: Tall okra varieties may need staking, especially in windy areas, to prevent plants from toppling over.
- Harvesting: Harvest okra pods when they are 2â€"4 inches long, which is typically 50â€"60 days after planting. Use a sharp knife or scissors to cut pods from the plant, leaving a small portion of the stem attached. Harvest regularly to encourage continued production.
- Pest and Disease Control: Monitor for common pests like aphids or flea beetles. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil as needed. Avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal diseases like powdery mildew.
