8 Reasons to Grow Okra in Your Garden This Summer!

An article by Travis Key from Lazy Dog Farm

One of our previous blogs discussed vegetables that thrive in the summer heat. One of those heat-loving vegetables we mentioned was okra, which is a must-have in every summer garden. This versatile vegetable, known for its unique texture and nutritional benefits, thrives in hot weather and can provide a bountiful harvest with relatively little effort. Here are several reasons why okra is a great addition to your summer garden:

1. Heat Tolerance

One of the primary reasons to grow okra in the summer is its remarkable heat tolerance. While many vegetables struggle in the sweltering summer heat, okra flourishes. Native to the hot climates of Africa, okra thrives in temperatures above 90°F. Its ability to withstand high temperatures makes it an ideal crop for gardeners living in regions with hot summers. Unlike some other vegetables that may wilt or require constant shading, okra can grow vigorously even under the intense summer sun.

2. Low Maintenance

Okra is relatively low maintenance, making it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced gardeners. It requires minimal care once established. Okra plants need well-drained soil and full sun to grow their best. Regular watering is essential, especially during dry spells, but okra is quite drought-tolerant compared to other vegetables. If soil moisture becomes too dry, okra pods can get tough at shorter lengths. Keeping soil moisture relatively consistent will allow you to harvest the pods at longer lengths, giving you more okra per harvest!

3. Fast Growth and High Yield

Okra grows quickly and produces an abundant harvest. From planting to harvest, okra typically takes about 50-60 days, allowing you to enjoy fresh pods throughout the summer. Some okra varieties will reach heights of 8-10’ tall, but other dwarf varieties will remain relatively short and have more of a bushy growth habit. Either way, each okra plant can yield a significant number of pods throughout its lifetime. Regular harvesting encourages the plants to produce more pods, ensuring a continuous supply of fresh okra.

4. Nutritional Benefits

Okra is packed with nutrients, making it a healthy addition to your diet. It is an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate and fiber. Additionally, okra contains antioxidants and beneficial compounds like quercetin and catechins. These have been linked to various health benefits, including reduced inflammation and improved heart health. Including okra in your meals can contribute to a balanced and nutritious diet.

5. Culinary Versatility

Okra's unique texture and flavor make it a versatile ingredient in the kitchen. It can be prepared in a variety of ways, including frying, boiling, grilling, and pickling. Okra is a key ingredient in dishes such as gumbo and can be added to soups, stews, and salads. While some people are turned off by the “slimy” texture of okra, this is a valuable trait in thickening soups and stews. With so many culinary possibilities, having a fresh supply of homegrown okra can inspire creativity in your cooking.

6. Pest and Disease Resistance

Okra is relatively resistant to many common garden pests and diseases, which makes it a hardy crop for summer gardens. While it can still be susceptible to pests like aphids and flea beetles, these can often be managed with simple organic pesticides. Additionally, okra's robust nature means it can recover quickly from minor pest damage, reducing the overall need for intensive pest management.

7. Space Efficiency

Even though okra plants can grow tall, they don't take up much horizontal space in the garden. This vertical growth habit makes them ideal for small gardens or for gardeners looking to maximize their growing area. You can interplant okra with other shorter crops, optimizing the use of your garden space. This efficient use of space allows you to grow more varieties of vegetables and enjoy a diverse summer harvest.

8. Seed Saving and Sustainability

Growing okra can also contribute to a more sustainable garden. There are many heirloom okra varieties for which you can save the seeds and replant the following year. Allow some pods to mature and dry on the plant, then collect the seeds for future use. This practice not only saves money but also helps you maintain a self-sufficient garden.

It's Time to Plant Some Okra!

Okra is an excellent vegetable to grow in your backyard garden during the warm summer months. Its heat tolerance, low maintenance requirements, fast growth, high yield, nutritional benefits, culinary versatility, pest resistance, space efficiency, and potential for seed saving make it a standout choice for summer gardening. Whether you are a seasoned gardener or just starting out, okra can provide a rewarding gardening experience and a delicious addition to your summer meals. So, grab some okra seeds, plant them in your garden, and enjoy the numerous benefits this wonderful vegetable has to offer.

Thousands of gardeners have been tuning in to The Lazy Dog Farm YouTube channel where Travis covers a variety topics ranging from how to successfully start seedlings to how to make a flavorful hot sauce that packs a punch. Accompanied by his wife Brooklyn and their two boys, the gardens on their 2 acre homestead in southwest Georgia are always filled with a wide variety of vegetables that are enjoyed fresh or preserved for later.