Choose a sunny location with at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight
Select well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0
Prepare the soil by loosening it and mixing in compost or aged manure
Wait until all danger of frost has passed and soil is warm
Soak okra seeds in water for a few hours before planting, if desired
Plant seeds 1/2 to 1 inch deep
Space seeds 12 to 18 inches apart in rows 3 feet apart
Water the soil lightly after planting
Keep the soil evenly moist until seeds germinate
Thin seedlings if needed to maintain proper spacing
Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Water deeply during dry periods
Fertilize lightly if soil is poor
Harvest pods when they are 2 to 4 inches long
Pick pods frequently to encourage more production
