Germination Time for Okra

Germination Period

• Sow okra seeds directly outdoors only in areas with warm weather and mild winters right after the last frost. In other areas, it is best to start seed indoors five weeks before the expected last frost. Sow seeds at a depth of ¾ inch and keep soil temperature between 80 to 95 degrees. Seeds will germinate in five to 14 days, according to Edward C. Smith in "The Vegetable Gardener's Bible."

Site and Soil

• Okra requires a fertile and well-drained soil with a preferred pH of 6.5 to 7.5 for best growth. The vegetable does not grow well in poorly drained, wet sites. Select a hot area that receives full sun. Amend the planting site with 1 to 2 lbs. of a 10-10-10 fertilizer per 100 square feet. At the time of harvesting, sprinkle nitrogen very lightly around each plant. Avoid excessive use of nitrogen.

Pre-Treatment

• Pre-treatment refers to preparation of seed prior to planting in order to help speed up germination. Okra seeds have a tough outer coating that may take longer to germinate unless pre-treated. Using a nail file, nick each seed to bruise the coat slightly. Soak the nicked seeds overnight in cold water. Drain water in the morning and plant as planned.

Harvesting

• Okra plants have a mature height of nearly 6 feet and bloom with yellow, funnel-shaped flowers that eventually turn into the seed-filled pods. Pods are ready to harvest when they are 2 to 4 inches long. Okra pods appear rapidly within five to six days of flowering and hence need harvesting on a regular basis. Harvest with hand shears or a sharp knife and take care not to bruise the pods. Avoid letting pods get 5 or more inches long because these tend to become stringy and tough. Remove and discard the unusable pods from plants since these affect additional flower and fruit production.