Dwarf Perkins is a more compact okra variety that features a shorter plant height, making it ideal for smaller gardens or high-wind areas. The dark green pods are tender and flavorful, staying tender for extended periods, which makes them a reliable option for fresh eating, freezing, or pickling.
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, typically in late spring.
- Location: Choose a sunny spot with at least 6–8 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 8–12 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 6.0–7.5.
- Planting Seeds:
- Soak seeds in warm water for 12–24 hours before planting to speed up germination.
- Sow seeds 1/2–1 inch deep, spacing them 12–18 inches apart in rows.
- Space rows 3–4 feet apart for proper airflow and ease of harvesting.
- Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist until germination, which typically takes 7–10 days. Once established, water deeply and consistently to promote healthy growth.
Indoor Sowing (Starting Seeds Indoors)
- Timing: Start okra seeds indoors 4–6 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 12–24 hours before planting.
- Sow seeds 1/2–1 inch deep, placing 1–2 seeds per pot.
- Cover lightly with soil mix and water gently.
- Germination:
- Maintain a temperature of 75–85°F for optimal germination.
- Expect seedlings to emerge within 7–10 days.
- Transplanting: Transplant seedlings outdoors when soil temperatures are consistently above 70°F and plants are 4–6 inches tall. Space plants 12–18 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 4–6 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 2–4 inches long, which is typically 50–60 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.
