Big Okra

Okra

Zone 2a Save Garden

🌱 60d to harvest Upright

Big Okra brings a lush, velvety garden presence with pods that mature to bold, extra-large size—tender, pleasantly mild, and rich…

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Direct Sow
Last Frost	May 25th
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Jun 8th
Harvest Begins	Aug 7th
Harvest Ends	Aug 29th

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	60
Sun Requirements	Full Sun
Growth Habit	Upright
Support Needed	None
Planting Depth	Normal
Germination Temp (°F)	75
Min Soil Temp (°F)	65
Min Night Temp (°F)	55
Harden Off (days)	10

Recommended Companions

Black Aztec Corn

Spicy Globe Basil Basil

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if my Big Okra plants get powdery mildew?

Powdery mildew shows up as a white, dusty coating on okra leaves, often during warm, humid spells. Remove the worst affected leaves, improve airflow with wider spacing, and avoid wetting foliage when watering. If it keeps spreading, spray a labeled sulfur fungicide or potassium bicarbonate product early in the morning and repeat as directed on the label until new growth stays clean.

How often should I water Big Okra during the main growing phase?

During the main production phase (once pods start forming), keep soil consistently moist but not soggy—about 1–1.5 inches of water per week total, adjusted for heat and mulch. Water deeply 1–2 times per week rather than daily sprinkles, and aim for dampness 4–6 inches down to support steady pod growth. If leaves wilt mid-day, check soil moisture first; okra dislikes waterlogged beds and will still slow or drop pods if the ground stays wet.

How can I tell when Big Okra pods are ready to harvest?

Harvest Big Okra pods when they’re tender and about 3–5 inches long, usually around 50–60 days to first pick depending on conditions. Pick pods every 1–2 days once harvesting starts, because older pods quickly turn tough and woody and will reduce new pod production. A pod should feel crisp and slightly firm but not rubbery—if you can’t easily puncture it with a fingernail, it’s getting past prime.

Big Okra brings a lush, velvety garden presence with pods that mature to bold, extra-large size—tender, pleasantly mild, and richly green. The pods hold a crisp, succulent bite and shine with a fine, ridged surface that’s especially appealing when showcased in fresh preparations and quick skillet favorites. Grow Big Okra for dependable summer harvests and a steady supply of substantial pods for stir-fries, sauces, and pickling-style preserves.

Sowing Tips

Transplant Conditions

Wait until soil reaches 65°F and nights stay above 55°F before moving outdoors. Harden off for 10 days first.

Direct Sow Preferred

Sensitive roots — does not transplant well. If starting indoors, use biodegradable pots and disturb roots as little as possible when moving outdoors.

Expert Note

Direct-sow okra after soil warms and nights stay reliably warm; thinning to spacing is key to getting large pods for slicing.