Okra Farming in Kenya: Growing Wealth in Kenyan Soils

Anytime I hear of okra, I imagine of the West African Okra soup. Okra is green and pod-shaped botanically classified as a fruit with seeds, yet widely embraced as a vegetable in the culinary world. It’s believed to have originated in West Africa before spreading to other parts of the world. The good news is that we are finally having Okra in Kenya. Let’s explore the basics of cultivating this versatile crop and uncover the potential it holds.

Okra Plant.

Ideal climatic conditions for growing Okra.

Okra is a vegetable that thrives in warm climates and is ideally suited for tropical and subtropical regions. The ideal conditions include:

                        I.         Temperature

Okra does best in warm temperatures that range between 25 to 35 degrees Celsius. Cooler temperatures can stunt growth and adversely affect the okra plant. Choosing the right planting time when temperatures are consistently warm is a key factor to successful cultivation of okra.

                      II.         Rainfall

While it can tolerate dry conditions, consistent moisture is beneficial for optimal growth. Okra requires well distributed rainfall or irrigation during the dry seasons.

                    III.         Humidity

Okra thrives well in high humid areas, but it can still be cultivated in areas with lower humidity levels.

                    IV.         Sunlight

For optimal growth and productivity, okra requires approximately 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight. It is a sun loving plant. A well-lit environment helps prevent diseases by promoting good air circulation and drying the foliage.

In areas that receive limited sunlight, an okra farmer should consider planting the plant in spots that receive the maximum sunlight available.

Best soils for growing Okra.

Okra thrives best in well-drained, loamy soils with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.5). Soils enriched with organic matter, promote optimal fertility and moisture retention. Good drainage is crucial to prevent waterlogging and root diseases.

 Okra planting techniques

Proper planting technique is essential for any crop or plant to be successful. Here is a step-by-step guide for planting okra.

a)   Get the right location

ü  Select a spot that receives maximum direct sunlight since okra is a sun loving plant. The spot should also be well-drained with the pH levels ranging from (6.0 to 7.5) since okra thrives best in slightly acid to neutral pH.

b)   Prepare the soil

ü  Till the soil (dig up) to obtain a soft and fine texture that will allow the roots to push their way through the soil easily.

c)    Planting the seedlings

ü  Space your seedlings 12-18 inches apart in rows that are 3 to 4 feet apart for them to have enough room for development and good air circulation.

ü  Water the area gently after planting.

ü  You can intercrop it with other plants like eggplant and cucumber since they are 'thirsty' crops and okra needs a lot of water.

d)   Fertilize

ü  A few weeks after planting using a balanced fertiliser that has a 1:2 ratio of nitrogen to potassium to encourage new growth and stimulate flower production.

e)   Mulch

ü  Apply a layer of mulch to retain moisture, suppress weeds, regulate soil temperature, and provide plants nutrients as the mulching material decomposes. Mulching creates a favourable environment for your okra to thrive, reducing the need for frequent watering and promoting healthier growth.

f)     Harvest

ü  Harvest when the pods are 3-4 inches long for optimal tenderness.

ü  Cut the pods gently using a sharp knife or a pair of scissors.

ü  Aim to harvest your mature okra after every 2-3 days to encourage production and avoid your okra from being stringy or bitter due to overstaying on the plant.

Pests and Diseases affecting Okra plant.

The okra plant is susceptible to a number of pests and diseases like;

§  Aphids

Aphids feed on the plant sap causing a distortion of the leaves and a stunted growth. This can transmit plant viruses, weaken the plant, and create a favourable environment for the growth of sooty mold.

Use of insecticidal soap or neem oil may help manage aphids on your okra plant.

§  Spider mites

These pests suck the cell contents from okra leaves, leading to yellow stippling and eventually browning of leaves. Severe infestations by the pest can cause decreased plant vigor and yield.

Management: Keep the garden area clean, use neem oil or insecticidal soap while maintaining proper humidity levels.

§  Powdery Mildew

White, powdery spots appear on the okra leaves. Powdery mildew affects photosynthesis and weakens the plant. Severe infections can lead to defoliation and reduced fruit production.

Management: Provide proper air circulation, avoid overhead watering, and use fungicides if needed.

§  Bacterial Wilt

This bacteria enters the plant and causes wilting and yellowing of leaves which may eventually cause the plant to dry up. Managing bacterial wilt may require practising good sanitation in the garden and rotating crops to reduce disease pressure.

Common uses of okra

v Culinary Purposes

Okra Vegetable.

Okra is a versatile vegetable used in soups, stews, stir-fries and as a fried or pickled side dish. Similar to other greens, okra leaves can be used in cooking, the flowers can be used in salads or as a garnish, the seeds can be pressed to extract oil that is used in cooking.

      v Medicinal uses          

   Various parts of the okra plant are used for treating digestive issues.

v Ornamental Purposes

Okra plants with their large, attractive leaves and unique flowers can be grown for ornamental purposes in gardens.

v Crafting

Okra plant contains fibers that can be used for crafting or making twine.