The planting method and timing of okra
Answering netizens' questions about the planting method and timing of okra and sharing some green plant maintenance tips related to okra cultivation. Here is a detailed introduction.
Okra is known as the "king of vegetables" for its high nutritional value, rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. It can be stir-fried, made into soup, pickled, or preserved. Autumn is the best season to eat okra, and it is usually available in the market and supermarkets, with a high market demand. As a health-promoting vegetable, the cultivation of okra has become more widespread in recent years. So, what is the planting time and method for okra? Let's find out together.
Planting time for okra
Okra prefers warm climates and is sensitive to frost, so播种 (播种 = sowing) is often done in spring. Generally, planting can be done from April to June. However, due to the different climates in the north and south, there will be differences in specific timing: planting can be done in March in the south, in May in the north, and in April in coastal areas.
Planting methods for okra
1. Prepare the land and make ridges
Select a high and flat terrain for planting. Before planting, the land should be deeply cultivated and sufficient base fertilizer applied to provide ample nutrients for the plant growth. Well-rotted farm manure can be used, applying 5000 kg per mu and 20 kg of compound fertilizer, then dig ditches and make ridges 200 cm wide, with four rows per ridge, after which播种 can be carried out.
2. Germination and sowing
Select full, large seeds, soak them in water for 12 hours, and then wrap them in a wet cloth and place them in a 25-30℃ environment to germinate. Rinse with clean water every day, and when more than 60% of the seeds have germinated after three to four days, they can be sown promptly.
3. Sowing methods
There are generally two ways to plant okra: direct seeding and seedling raising and transplanting. Direct seeding is mainly done in the south, where it can be carried out after the end of late frost when the ground temperature reaches above 15 degrees. Seedling raising and transplanting usually starts in mid-March, with the seedbed temperature controlled between 25-28 degrees. Generally, seedlings can emerge in 4-5 days and be transplanted after 30-40 days when they have 3-4 leaves.
4. Field management
(1) After okra seedlings emerge, water once a week. If it is the rainy season, reduce watering and pay attention to drainage, as well as timely weeding.
(2) Thinning usually requires removing weak seedlings and leaving strong ones, ensuring one plant per hole. This can be done in 2 to 3 stages, generally ending before the 3-4 leaf stage.
(3) When the okra plant reaches a height of about 50 cm and has 7-9 true leaves, it will start to bear fruit. At this time, a heavy application of fertilizer is needed, applying about 50-60 kg of compound fertilizer per mu to increase yield.
5. Harvest at the right time
Harvesting is generally done one week after the flowers fade. The best time to harvest is in the evening, taking care not to damage the branches, with a harvesting period of up to three months.
In summary, okra is a very popular vegetable, and those who want to plant it must be clear about its planting time and method to ensure the yield and quality of okra.
The above () introduces the planting method and timing of okra and related cultivation techniques, hoping to bring a little help to your life!