Okra Seed 'Clemson Spineless'

Also known as 'Ladies Fingers' and 'Gumbo', Okra is closely related to Cotton and Hibiscus and was first cultivated by the Egyptians in the twelfth century BC.

It is grown for its immature seed pods which are used in soups, stews and, of course, curries but which can also be steamed or fried.

Pods are virtually spineless.

Being quite tender this is best grown under protection, though may fare well in a warm sheltered spot outside.

• Sow under protection in pots from March to April and germinate in a temperature of 70-85F (21-29F).
• When seed leaves are developed pot on into 3" (9 cm) pots or similar and grow on at a minimum temperature of 65F (18C).
• Pot on into 12-litre pots or plant out into the greenhouse or border soil when approximately 6" (15 cm) tall.
• If growing outside pot up or plant out after the threat of frost is over and after hardening off the plants.
• If growing in the border soil plant approximately 18" (45 cm) apart.

• Top Tips
• Whilst Okra tolerates dry conditions well, keeping the plants just moist at all times will increase yield.
• Pods are best harvested by cutting off with a knife or secateurs when between 2-4" (5-10 cm) in length.
• Cut regularly to keep plants productive and do not allow pods to get too large as they will become tough and stringy.
• Okra plants have short hairs that are a skin irritant for some people so wear gloves and long-sleeved tops when harvesting or attending to the plants.