Bowling Red

Okra

Zone 5a Save Garden

🌱 55d to harvest Upright

Bowling Red okra brings a bold, velvety allure to the garden—slender pods with a rich, garnet-red glow and a tender, juicy bite w…

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Mar 27th
Last Frost	May 8th
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Jun 5th
Harvest Begins	Jul 30th
Harvest Ends	Sep 30th

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	55
Sun Requirements	Full Sun
Growth Habit	Upright
Support Needed	None
Planting Depth	Normal
Germination Temp (°F)	80
Min Soil Temp (°F)	65
Min Night Temp (°F)	55
Harden Off (days)	10

Recommended Companions

African Basil Basil

Lemon Sweet Clove Basil

Queen Of Sheba Basil Basil

Italian Large Leaf Basil

Tuscany Basil Basil

Sweet Dani Basil

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I manage powdery mildew on Bowling Red plants?

Powdery mildew often appears as a white, dusty coating on Bowling Red foliage when days are warm and nights are cool. Cut off heavily affected leaves early, then improve airflow by spacing plants and watering at the soil line (avoid wetting leaves). If it keeps spreading, spray with a potassium bicarbonate or sulfur-based fungicide and repeat as directed on the label, especially after humid periods.

How often should I water Bowling Red during the main growing phase (after seedlings establish)?

During the main growth phase, keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy—aim for the top 1 inch to dry slightly before watering again. For most home beds, that typically means watering about 1–2 times per week, increasing to more frequent watering during hot, windy spells. Use a deep soak so moisture reaches the root zone, then stop once excess water begins to pool or the soil stays wet.

How can I tell when Bowling Red is ready to harvest?

Bowling Red is typically ready around 55 days after sowing when pods/heads (depending on your variety form) are fully colored and have reached the expected size for the tag. For the best eating quality, harvest when the surface is firm and the plants look mature but not dried out—if you wait until the crop looks leathery or starts browning, flavor and tenderness drop. Check a couple of plants by opening a few pods/heads and harvesting the most developed ones first.

Bowling Red okra brings a bold, velvety allure to the garden—slender pods with a rich, garnet-red glow and a tender, juicy bite when young. Expect a crisp, fine-grained texture that shines in quick skillet favorites, as well as in vibrant pickles and bright sauces where its color stays striking. Grow this 55-day standout for a steady harvest of showy pods that look as good as they taste.

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

For the earliest harvest in the Carolinas, direct sow when soil warms and keep the bed evenly moist until seedlings emerge.