Okra Planting Guide
Heat-loving plant producing tender pods used in Southern cooking and stews
Best Time and Place to Plant Okra
In USDA zone 7, the typical spring window is April 1 to May 15. Cooler zones usually plant later; warmer zones plant earlier.
Plant Okra in a spot with 6+ hours of direct sun, soil warmed to 65F to 95F, and enough room for 12 inches between plants and 24 inches between rows.
Planting Windows by Zone
| Zone | Spring | Fall |
|---|---|---|
| Zone 1 | May 20 to June 1 | Varies |
| Zone 2 | May 15 to June 5 | Varies |
| Zone 3 | May 10 to June 10 | Varies |
| Zone 4 | May 1 to June 1 | Varies |
| Zone 5 | April 25 to May 25 | Varies |
| Zone 6 | April 15 to May 20 | Varies |
| Zone 7 | April 1 to May 15 | Varies |
| Zone 8 | March 15 to May 1 | Varies |
| Zone 9 | March 1 to April 15 | July 1 to August 1 |
| Zone 10 | February 1 to April 1 | July 15 to August 15 |
| Zone 11 | January 1 to March 1 | August 1 to October 1 |
| Zone 12 | January 1 to February 15 | August 15 to October 15 |
| Zone 13 | Year-round to Year-round | Varies |
Spacing and Care
- Planting depth: 0.5 inches deep
- Spacing: 12 inches apart, 24 inches between rows
- Soil temperature: 65F to 95F
- Sunlight: 6+ hours
- Watering: 1 inch per week once established; drought tolerant but produces better with water
- Days to harvest: 55
Fertilization
- 10-10-10 Balanced synthetic: 2 lbs per 100 sq ft at planting
- Compost organic: 3 inches worked in before planting
Companion Plants
- Basil
- Peppers
- Melons
- Eggplant
Avoid Planting Near
- Squash
Harvest Signs
- Pods are 3-4 inches long and tender
- Harvest every 2-3 days or pods become tough and fibrous
- Pods should snap cleanly, not bend
- Wear gloves — plant spines can irritate skin
FAQs
When should I plant Okra?
Okra planting depends on your USDA hardiness zone. In USDA zone 7, the typical spring window is April 1 to May 15. Cooler zones usually plant later; warmer zones plant earlier.
What is the best time of year to plant Okra?
The best time of year to plant Okra is when your zone planting window is open and soil temperatures are around 65F to 95F. In USDA zone 7, the typical spring window is April 1 to May 15. Cooler zones usually plant later; warmer zones plant earlier.
Where is the best place to plant Okra?
Plant Okra in a spot with 6+ hours of direct sun, soil warmed to 65F to 95F, and enough room for 12 inches between plants and 24 inches between rows.
How far apart should I plant Okra?
Plant Okra about 12 inches apart, with rows around 24 inches apart.
What grows well with Okra?
Okra is commonly paired with Basil, Peppers, Melons, Eggplant.