Okra/Bendi Seeds

Among the things that add allure to the Okra is that its benefits include the high content of magnesium, fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins. Okra is had in diets because it keeps you full longer owing to the fiber content, improves digestion and the vital nutrients improve immunity. Okra is called bhindi in Hindi.

Note: Used as seeds only and not for consumption. Seeds to be sown before the expiry date.

Sowing

• Sow okra seeds in full sun and average, well-worked soil after danger of frost.
• Grow okra in a different place every year to avoid problems with pests and diseases.
• Prepare the bed by turning the soil under to a depth of 8 inches. Level with a rake to remove clumps of grass and stones.
• Plant 3-4 seeds every 12 inches in rows 36 inches apart.
• Cover with 1 inch of fine soil.
• Seedlings should emerge in 14-21 days.
• Thin to strongest seedling per group when plants are 1-2 inches high.

Caring

• Keep weeds under control during the growing season. Weeds compete with plants for water, space, and nutrients, so control them by either cultivating often or use mulch to prevent their seeds from germinating.
• Avoid disturbing the soil around the plants when weeding.
• Keep plants well-watered during dry periods to promote rapid, uninterrupted growth. Plants need about 1-1 ½ inches of rain per week during the growing season. Use a rain gauge to check to see if you need to add water.
• It’s best to water with a drip or trickle system that delivers water at low pressure at the soil level. If you water with overhead sprinklers, water early in the day so the foliage has time to dry off before evening, to minimize disease problems. Keep the soil moist but not saturated.
• Monitor for pests and diseases. Check with your local Cooperative Extension Service for pest controls recommended for your area.

Common Problems:

Why are my okra leaves turning yellow?

Okra leaves changing color to yellow is an indication of root disease. Your plant could be suffering from a fungal infection or an insect infestation. Spray appropriate chemicals when you notice signs of any diseases on your plant.

Why is my okra not blooming?

If your okra is not blooming, it could be because you are under watering your okra plant. Water your okra plants well throughout summer. Providing 1 inch of water per week to your okra plant is ideal. Another reason why your okra plant is not blooming could be a nutrient imbalance. Okras prefer fertilizers that are higher in phosphorous rather than nitrogen.

Why are my okra seeds not germinating?

Improper growing conditions like overwatering/ under watering, not enough sunlight or sowing in the seeds too deep can all affect the germination process of your okra seeds. Make sure you are following the sowing and growing instructions correctly to ensure successful germination.