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Okra
Abelmoschus esculentus
Malvaceae
Days to harvest: 50–65 days
Spacing: 30 × 75 cm
When to plant okra in Australia
Okra needs sustained heat and isn't suited to cool climates at all. In temperate zones (Melbourne, Adelaide, Sydney), wait until frost risk has passed, from around October. In arid and subtropical zones you can plant from spring through summer. In the tropics (Darwin, Cairns) okra can be grown for much of the year. Expect 50–65 days from sowing to first harvest.
Growing guide
Sunlight
6–8 hours direct sun per day
Watering
Medium — water when topsoil feels dry
Spacing
30cm between plants, 75cm between rows
Frost tolerance
Tender — frost will damage or kill
Frequently asked
- How long does okra take to grow?
- Typically 50–65 days from sowing to first harvest, depending on conditions.
- Can okra grow in cool climates?
- No — okra needs sustained heat to thrive and isn't recommended for cool climates like Hobart, Canberra, or alpine regions.
- How much space does okra need?
- Around 30cm between plants within the row and about 75cm between rows.
- What pests affect okra?
- Aphids on new growth and nematodes around the root zone — rotate okra to a new spot each year rather than replanting in the same bed.
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