Ladyfingers are the edible
seedpods of the okra plant (Abelmoschus esculentus) and are also known as
gumbo. The plant is related to cotton and hibiscus and is originally from
Africa. Indian lady fingers (Bhindi ) is another name for the vegetable known
as okra in the U.S. and gumbo in parts of Africa. Lady fingers are a common
ingredient in several Indian dishes. The plant is an annual that produces large
ornamental flowers.
It is propagated from seeds. Wrap the
seeds in a moist paper towel the night before you are planting them. This
overnight soaking will speed up the germination process. Plant the seeds in the
garden, sowing them 1 inch deep. Space the seeds 4 to 6 inches apart and keep
rows 3 feet apart. When the seedlings have sprouted, thin them so that
individual plants are spaced 12 to 15 inches apart.
Ladyfinger can be grown in any place
with good drainage system. The pH of soil should be 6-6.8. Cover the soil with
a 2-inch layer of organic compost and mix it into the soil with your shovel at
a depth of 6 inches.
Water the ladyfingers immediately
after planting and water it once or twice a week when soil gets completely dry.
Irrigate your plants during dry spells, aiming to moisten the soil to a depth
of 6 inches. Water the plant in the morning to allow them to dry out.
Long, warm and wet climate is
considered to be the best. For seed-growth 25-30 degree centigrade temperature
is suitable, below 16 degree centigrade the seeds do not grow. This crop can
grow both in summer and winter.
Feed plants with more fertilizer when
they reach 6 inches tall and again 2 or 3 weeks later, if desired. Dig a trench
6 inches deep along the plants’ drip line. Cover the fertilizer and water
thoroughly.
Harvest ladyfinger pods once they are
2 or 3 inches long and harvest regularly as leaving large pods on the plant
reduces overall yield.
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