Heavy Hitter

Okra

Zone 7a Save Garden

🌱 60d to harvest Upright

Velvety pods arrive with a bold, meaty presence—Heavy Hitter okra produces thick, deep-green spears that feel satisfyingly substa…

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Direct Sow
Last Frost	Apr 20th
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Jun 1st
Harvest Begins	Jul 31st
Harvest Ends	Oct 20th

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)	12

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Frequently Asked Questions

What pest or disease is most likely on Abelmoschus esculentus (okra), and how do I control it?

Look for aphids and whitefly, especially on young growth—both cause leaf curling and sticky honeydew. Spray plants with a strong stream of water to knock pests off, then repeat every 3–4 days for 1–2 weeks; if needed, use insecticidal soap or neem labeled for vegetable use. If you see yellowing with wilting or dark stem lesions, remove affected plants immediately to limit spread, since okra can be prone to vascular wilts under warm, humid conditions.

How often should I water okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) during the main growing phase?

During flowering and fruiting (about weeks 3–8), keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy: water about 1 inch per week total, adjusting to heat so the top 1–2 inches of soil don’t dry out. Water at the base early in the day to reduce leaf wetness, which helps prevent okra foliar issues. In containers, check daily in hot weather and water when the top inch feels dry.

How can I tell when Abelmoschus esculentus pods are ready to harvest?

Harvest okra pods when they’re young and tender—typically 50–60 days from sowing, then every 2–3 days once picking starts. Pick pods when they’re about 2–4 inches long (roughly finger length) and still feel crisp rather than woody; large, thick pods quickly become tough and seedy. If you wait too long, production slows, so frequent picking is key to keeping pods at peak tenderness.

Velvety pods arrive with a bold, meaty presence—Heavy Hitter okra produces thick, deep-green spears that feel satisfyingly substantial in the hand. Expect a tender, mild flavor with a smooth, lightly crisp bite that shines in warm preparations and also holds its character beautifully for thickening sauces and pickling. A dependable 60-day performer, it’s an easy choice for gardeners who want standout pods and repeat harvests.

Sowing Tips