Growing okra hydroponically is both fun and rewarding.
Okra tends to do very well in a soil-free environment and is quick to produce a bountiful harvest if you follow this simple approach.
Here are the basic steps you should follow to grow okra in hydroponics.
Choose a Suitable Hydroponic Method
There are numerous hydroponic systems available to use, such as deep water culture (DWC), nutrient film technique (NFT), or drip system. Choose the one that suits your needs, budget, and experience level.
I am a big believer in my homemade DWC setup for its effectiveness and simplicity.
Here’s an article that explains the pros and cons of the six different hydroponic systems if you need help choosing.
Some systems, such as NFT, are simply not suited for a plant like Okra due to the shallow root channel in that design.
A drip system with a 5-gallon bucket as a reservoir would be a good option for growing a single plant.
The Kratky Method is another option to consider. Kratky is perfect for beginners. Just be aware that your container will need to be large enough to house the large roots.
Choose a Variety of Okra
So many okras, so little time. Something you’ll want to consider when choosing a variety is how much space you’ll have. Some okra plants grow 7-9 feet tall!
Clemson Spineless is considered the most popular variety for its prolific harvest.
A dwarf variety I personally use, Baby Bubba, is a great option for indoor gardens due to its compact size.
Baby Bubba only gets a few feet tall!
Start With Healthy Seeds
Purchase good quality okra seeds from a reputable supplier.
Make sure the seeds are healthy and disease-free.
I always recommend soaking seeds in lukewarm water for a minimum of 12 hours before planting. Although not required, this step will quicken germination.
Germinate the Seeds
Germinate the seeds in a tray. Place the seeds directly in a growing medium, such as, coco coir or vermiculite. Keep the tray moist and warm.
Use a warming mat under the tray if you have one available. You should start seeing sprouts within a few days.
I am also a big believer in using paper towels to germinate seeds. This gets seeds started quickly and reliably.
Transplant the Seedlings
Once the seedlings have grown to about 2-3 inches tall, transplant them into the hydroponic system. Make sure the system is filled with the appropriate nutrient solution!
Maintain the Nutrient Solution
Okra requires a balanced nutrient solution that includes nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and other micronutrients.
Do not overdo the nitrogen when growing Okra as this will delay flowering!
Monitor the pH and EC levels regularly, and adjust the nutrient solution, as needed.
EC should be between 2.0 and 2.4. The ideal pH for Okra is between 6 and 6.5.
It is very important to feed Okra the correct nutrients!
Click here for help maintaining pH.
Provide Adequate Light
If growing indoors, you’ll want to keep grow lights on the plant for at least 12 hours per day. Okra plants will do best in full sun if grown outdoors.
I keep my LED grow lights on for 14 hours per day.
Provide Adequate Heat
Okra LOVES heat. The plant thrives in temperatures between 75F and 95F, so think about your local weather or grow room conditions if growing indoors.
Also, remember your plants will suffer if the nutrient solution is too cold. Consider placing a heat mat under the reservoir to maintain optimal temperatures.
This is one area of growing Okra where I struggle. My room temps just aren’t ideal.
I do use a warming mat to raise the temp of the water. And, the LED lights add a few degrees, too.
Monitor Plant Growth
Keep an eye on the growth of the plants and prune them, as necessary. Okra plants can grow quite tall. It isn’t a bad idea to prune them for a bushy form.
Make sure they have enough space to grow. This pertains to the foliage as well as the roots.
Flowers will appear roughly 40-50 days after planting, and you’ll know harvest will be close when you see them.
Harvest!
Now for the fun part – Harvest! Okra pods are ready to be harvested when they reach 2-4 inches long depending on the variety.
Use a sharp knife or scissors to cut the pods from the plant. Don’t let the Okra sit too long as the vegetable will grow tough and stringy!
Okra is a fun and rewarding plant that does great in hydroponics. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be rewarded with a terrific harvest!
Ready to branch out and try your hand at growing other edible plants? Check out this article on the ten herbs and vegetables that grow well in hydroponics!
