Planting and Growing Guide for Lady Fingers (Abelmoschus esculentus)
Description
Lady Fingers, also known as Okra or Gumbo is frost tender and grows best in the warm summer months. Sow Lady Fingers seeds in seed trays and plant out after 3-5 weeks. Lady Fingers can be sown directly into your garden beds about 2-3 weeks before the last spring frost is expected, but best to wait until the weather is warm and stable. Lady Fingers does best in rich, well-drained soil with lots of organic matter. Lady Fingers can be grown in large containers.
Prevent weeds when the plants are young by applying a heavy layer of mulch. Add fertiliser, manure or compost regularly during the growing season. Keep the plants well watered throughout the summer months as growth checks will reduce the tenderness of the pods and reduce production. Check regularly for aphids and other pests. Lady Fingers requires warm temperatures for good yields. Wear gloves when picking the plants as the hairs can cause an allergic reaction. This reaction disappears when Lady Fingers are cooked and does not affect eating quality.
Lady Fingers pods can be sliced or used whole in soups or casseroles. They can be boiled or steamed as a vegetable side-dish. They can also be sliced length ways, and grilled or used in stir fry dishes. Whole Lady Fingers can even be baked. Lady Fingers can be used in a New Orleans Lady Fingers or Middle Eastern stews. Small Lady Fingers leaves are also edible, especially when young, and can be cooked like spinach. Lady Fingers is very nutritious, and is with vitamins and essential minerals and is a good source of dietary fibre.
Planting Guide
Seed Depth: Plant seed about 1 cm (1/2 inch deep). Soak seeds overnight in warm water to hasten germination.
Space between plants: Space plants about about 30-60 cm (2-3 feet) apart. Space rows 90-120 cm (3-4 feet) apart
Harvest Time: Harvest in about 10-15 weeks, but can be picked earlier
Hints:
- Does best in well-drained open soils
- Water regularly, but sparingly. Add water to the soil and base of the plants rather than over the foliage as plants are prone to stem-rot
- Does best in full sun or partial shade
- Add a layer of mulch around each plant to control weeds and keep the soil moist
- Prior to planting prepare the soil by mixing in well-rotted compost or manure or pellet fertiliser
- Feed regularly and keep the plants growing strongly without growth checks to improve the size, flavor and texture
- Harvest pods when young and tender; Ideal size is 5-8 cm (2-4 inches). Picking pods regularly extends the harvest season
Disclaimer: The PlantWhatWhen vegetable planting guide is only designed for use as a very general reference for home gardening purposes. It is not to be used for farming, markets or commercial activities of any kind whatsoever. We take absolutely no responsibility for the accuracy and adequacy of the information provided on this site. We recommend that you consider your local climate, weather patterns and conditions when deciding what and when to plant in your home garden. It's entirely your own decision. Happy Gardening and Best Wishes!