Okra planting technology and management methods

Okra prefers a warm, sunny environment and is sensitive to cold weather. Their ideal growing temperature range is 20°C to 30°C, and if the temperature drops below 15°C, seeds will have difficulty germinating. Low temperatures not only affect the growth of okra, causing the plants to be weak and reducing flowering and fruiting, but also slow fruit development, and the quality and taste will also be affected. Therefore, when planting in the open air, it is necessary to choose the appropriate sowing time according to local climatic conditions. Let’s learn about okra planting techniques and management methods.

1. Germination treatment before sowing

Because the shell of okra seeds is hard and the germination rate is low, it is recommended to use the immersion method for germination: first soak the seeds in 35°C warm water for 24 hours, then place them in an environment of about 28°C for germination, change the water every day, and after about four or five days, once the seeds show small sprouts, they can be sown.

2. Planting Method

In cold areas, okra is usually grown in a greenhouse first and then transplanted outdoors when the outside temperature is suitable. When raising seedlings, use humus-rich soil and farmyard manure to meet the needs of seedling growth.

In areas with warmer climates, such as Guangdong, hole sowing is generally used. Put three or four seeds in each hole, and thin out the seedlings when five or six true leaves grow. Keep one strong seedling in each hole, and pull out or transplant the rest.

Note: When transplanting, maintain appropriate row spacing and plant spacing, about 50 to 60 cm, to avoid over-dense planting that affects plant growth and flowering and fruiting, and thus affects yield.

3. Field Management

Okra has a well-developed root system and requires a large amount of fertilizer. Reasonable fertilization is the key to ensure healthy growth, lush branches and leaves, and high yields.

Base fertilizer: Use fully decomposed farmyard manure and an appropriate amount of compound fertilizer to ensure that the soil has sufficient nutrients.

Seedling-raising fertilizer: Apply seedling-raising fertilizer in time after transplanting to promote plant growth and flowering and fruiting.

Method: Use compound fertilizer with water, or spread it 5 cm away from the root of the plant, then cover it with a thin layer of soil and water it to prevent fertilizer loss; or use diluted decomposed human feces or urea for irrigation.

Flower and fruit fertilizer: Okra enters the flowering and fruiting period and requires a large amount of nutrients, so fertilization should be focused.

Method: Use decomposed human manure or compound fertilizer mixed with water for irrigation during the flowering period, or spread it in furrows; apply phosphorus and potassium fertilizers at the peak fruiting period, 20 to 30 kilograms per mu; spray 0.3% potassium hydrogen phosphate solution as foliar fertilizer in the late growth period.

Note: Top dressing should be done in time after harvesting to promote the growth of young fruits. Okra is drought-tolerant but not water-tolerant. It requires little water during the entire growing period. Pay attention to drainage to avoid root and rhizome rot.

4. Pruning

Okra likes light, and timely pruning can promote growth and increase the rate of flowering and fruiting. During the growing season, keep 2 to 3 branches and cut off excess side branches; remove old yellow leaves during the flowering and fruiting period, and cut off the leaves on the fruit stalks after picking.

Note: Pruning should be done on sunny days to avoid wound rot caused by rainy days.

5. Things to note during the picking period

Okra fruits can be harvested when they are 15 cm long. It is best to harvest them every two days to avoid overripening and affecting quality. Wear gloves when harvesting and use scissors to cut the fruit stalks to avoid damaging the plants.

In summary, okra is easy to grow, has high yield, and has few diseases and pests. As long as you master the above-mentioned management measures and precautions, you can grow high-quality, high-yield okra and increase economic benefits.