These resources are brought to you by the Cooperative Extension System and your Local Institution

Gardens, Lawns & Landscapes Home

How often should okra be harvested and how can you tell when it's ready?

Last Updated: November 06, 2011

View as web page


Okra requires frequent harvesting. For peak quality, it must be harvested before the pods become tough. Okra matures rapidly, especially in hot weather. Approximately four days are required from flowering to harvest maturity. Okra should be harvested every other day. Pod size will vary with variety, but length will generally be less than 4 inches. Test larger pods by cutting through them with a sharp knife. If the pods are difficult to cut through, they are tough and unsuitable for serving. Remove old pods from the plant so it will continue to produce.

Browse related Faqs by tag: horticulture, harvest, vegetables and herbs, vegeatble gardens, okra, fruit size


Have a specific question? Try asking one of our Experts

Unlike most other resources on the web, we have experts from Universities around the country ready to answer your questions.


View this page: