Okra

[Frana]

Any tips on growing this aswell folks?

Cheers all!

[BarleySugar]

I know it needs a lot of warmth. The year before last I tried some, but it was too cold in the greenhouse and the seedlings germinated fine, but then just keeled over. I decided not to bother again, so can't help much more.

[Eyren]

I'm trying some this year - starting them off in a heated propagator, then moved them to a sunny spot in my conservatory when they germinated. The seedlings are still only small at the moment, though; keeping my fingers crossed that they continue to do OK. It does get very hot in there in summer so provided I remember to water them, they might like it!

[bazzaboy]

As it happens was sowing some this morning (in propagator) – will let you know if anything happens. According to the pundits okra won’t germinate and develop at anything much below 20C (68F), prefers 30-35C (when it should germinate in about a week). That's pretty high for North Notts in March - high 70s to mid 80s Fahrenheit, currently it's 40F so a mite short. Quite what I do with it if anything hatches is an open question… move to Egypt or Senegal perhaps? b.

[Demeter]

I grew a few plants in my (plastic) greenhouse last year. They germinated nicely and got away to a reasonable start, but then came to a bit of a standstill. I did get a few fruits off them, but it really wasn't warm enough and they grew very slowly - worse than the melons. If it's hot enough, I'm told the stuff grows like a weed but last year, even under cover, it was nowhere near hot enough! Overall, for me - not worth the time / space requirement - and I'm not having a GH this year apart from my trusty miniGH so couldn't grow them again if I wanted to!

Good luck with yours.

[pjh75]

My first attempt in an unheated greenhouse germinated into strong seedlings... or so I thought - one day they just keeled over. Maybe it was still a bit too cold. I have tried again though, so hopefully this lot will be fine.

[Frana]

Well all,

Sowed some in pots in a heated propagator and they have come up well.

Something tells me that the hard part is going to be keeping them so well though!

Will keep y'all filled in.

[bazzaboy]

I think you're right Frana, mine have now shot up as if there's no tomorrow (and for them there probably isn't...). Whether they know what to do now (and whether I know what to do now) remains an open question... Will let you know. b.

[Frana]

Like wise Bazza, will let u know of my success (or lack of it!)