Jing Orange is a stunning okra variety recognized for its vibrant red-orange pods that grow to medium size. The pods are tender when harvested young, with a slightly firmer rib than some other varieties, but they offer excellent flavor and mouthfeel. Notably, they have virtually no mucilage when eaten raw. This versatile variety works well in soups, stir-fries, and other dishes. The plant is highly drought-tolerant and serves as a visual showstopper at farmers' markets, roadside stands, and home gardens alike.
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.
