Growing Okra In Detail
02/18/2015 13:24
These days, there has been a huge wave of vegetarianism spreading across the globe. Thanks to the health experts who have been stating that the key to healthy living lies in consuming more of vegetables, fruits, sprouts, etc. This emphasis has led to a sudden surge in the demand for vegetables across the globe leading to a great increase in the cultivation of the same. However, amidst all the vegetables that are in demand, one vegetable that has suddenly become popular is Okra.
Considered to have originated from Africa and being cousin of hibiscus, Okra is said to be in relation with hibiscus as it also produces flowers like it. Despite its origin, Okra is a widely accepted vegetable and also as a thickening agent for gumbo and stews. Also, Okra is a crop that can grow and generate yield all the summers. Whatever, may be the nature of growing, here are some basic things to remember while growing okra:
-
While growing okra, ensure that the plant gets sufficient sunlight as they grow the best in the hot climate. Though okra can support all kinds of soul, it best grows in fertile loam with a pH level between 6.5 and 7 with sufficient acid content.
-
Ensure to select good quality seeds and get rid of the shell in an effective way.
-
Once the right seed and soil are selected it is important to water the plant nearly an inch a week to maintain the needed moisture in the soil. Despite the fact that Okra can yield in draught. Also, it is better to water it sufficiently.
-
Once the seeds are sowed and nourished, make sure that you mulch the vegetation, once the plant nearly grows 4 inches tall. Also, ensure to side-dress the vegetation with compost tea every 3-4 weeks.
-
Despite the fact that growing okra is easy and hassle free, one must ensure to keep a tap on weeds and pesticides that may affect the crop. Corn earworms and cabbage loopers are some of the threats for the Okra plants.
-
Once the vegetation completes about eight weeks of growth, it starts sprouting pods, signalling that the regular harvesting can be started and continued till the plants stops producing any pods.
Thus, the above pointers give you brief idea growing okra. However, while actually growing okra one needs to pay to various other aspects too that depend upon the quantity and environment in which the plant is growing. Considering the fact that agriculture is a risky occupation, various organisations have been introducing crop growing techniques. However, it is Trivedi Foundation that seems to have redefined the agricultural sector with its The Trivedi Effect infused seeds that are capable of producing yields in all climatic conditions and soil.