![]() A highly recommended fertiliser for okra farming is the polyethylene mulch. Organic fertilisers like manure and compost coupled with appropriate registered inorganic fertilisers improve soil fertility, thus elongating the harvest period. Note that although adequate nitrogen is necessary to achieve a long harvest period, too much application causes excessive vegetative growth which leads to lower yields. If the soil test indicates high pH levels, lime can be applied 3 to 4 months prior to seeding. ![]() ![]() A soil tests is essential to define the type of nutrients and exact quantities that are needed for successful okra farming. Fertilisationįertilisers must be administered based on the results from a soil tests. The Prelude variety generally yields better than most okra varieties. Other popular varieties are: the Prelude which is an open pollinated spineless variety with very dark green, glossy, fluted pods Emeralds are a spineless variety with dark green, smooth, round pods and are one of the late maturing types taking up to 60 days. Okra varieties include Annie Oakley, a spineless variety with bright green angular pods that requires approximately 53 to 55 days to reach maturity. The ideal variety is one that it fast growing, compatible with the climate and soil, and resistant to pests and diseases rampant in an area. Seed variety determines the quantity and quality of the overall yield hence is one of the most important decisions in okra farming. In addition, okra farming thrives in highly fertile soils, as such organic fertilisers including mulch and manure should be used to improve soils and enhance good harvests. The compaction of the soil restricts plant growth resulting in declined yields. Take note that okra does not do well in soils with a hard pan. Although okra farming can be successful in clay soils, the seedlings have difficulty emerging thus it is advisable to use the transplanting method. Some varieties like the Pusa Sawami can thrive in soils with higher pH levels as they are more tolerant to salinity. This because a lot of okra varieties require maximum nutrient uptake. For the highest yields, soils should have a pH of 6 to 6.8. Poorly drained soils are unfavourable to plant growth as the vegetable tends to drown. Okra grows best in sandy loam soils that are well drained. The texture and fertility of the soil has a significant impact on successful okra farming. Okra plants grow rapidly in the rainy season than in dry weather conditions. Temperatures above 42 oC are also detrimental to the crop causing yield losses. Soil temperatures below 27 oC results in failed germination and the okra seeds decay. It is crucial to note that okra is highly sensitive to cold climatic conditions. For successful germination of seeds, temperatures should average at 21 oC to 32 oC. Okra requires soil temperatures of about 25 oC to 35 oC with minimum temperatures ranging at 20 oC. However, the vegetable can still thrive is slightly lower and higher temperatures. ![]() The optimum temperature for successful okra farming ranges between 25 oC and 30 oC. ![]() Okra develops best in climates with high day time temperatures as well as warm night temperatures. Okra farming is most fruitful in hot climates. ![]()
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