Okra is a handsome, heat-loving crop with beautiful hibiscus-like flowers followed by tender green pods for gumbos, curries and stir-fries. A raised bed's warm soil gives it the long hot run it craves.
Quick facts
- Position: full sun, loves heat
- Spacing: 40–50 cm apart
- Tub depth: our 35 cm depth
- Time to harvest: 10–14 weeks
When to plant: Okra is frost-tender and thrives in the heat — plant from late spring through summer once the soil is warm. Our free planting calendar shows the right months for your postcode.
Growing it in a raised bed: Sow directly or plant seedlings into warm, rich mix in the sunniest spot. Tall plants may need a stake. Pick pods young and often to keep the plant producing.
Watering and feeding: Water regularly through the warm season and feed while it's fruiting.
Common pests: keep an eye out for aphids, whiteflies and caterpillars. Most are easily managed — see our safe pest guide.
Common diseases: the main ones are powdery mildew and mosaic virus. Good airflow, morning watering and steady moisture prevent most.
Companion plants: A striking crop that grows happily near capsicum and eggplant. See our companion planting guide.
Harvest and storage: Pick pods young, at 5–8 cm — older pods turn woody fast. Harvest every day or two in the heat; regular picking keeps them coming.
More growing guides: eggplant, tomatillo and capsicum & chilli.
Plan your patch: our free planting calendar shows what to plant now where you live. Ready to grow? Browse our raised garden beds or build your own with the garden bed builder.
Image: Ramesh NG, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons.
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