In order to achieve an optimum yield from okra production, there is a need to take some factors into consideration which are:

• Farm Implements: Production of okra requires the use of simple farm implements such as :
• Hoes can be used for weeding, and to break up lumps of earth when preparing the seedbeds.
• Machetes are useful for planting of seeds and clearing of weeds
• Weighing balance can be used to weigh manure, fertili­zers and agrochemicals such as herbicides, pesticides and insecticides.
• Farm buckets can be used to spread manure.
• Lines (cords) are useful for taking measurements or marking the spacing when planting.

Having got the necessary farm implements for the planting, the question now is how do I plant my okra to get my expected output?

• Planting of okra

It can be done in more than one way either directly in the garden or first on the nursery seedbeds or by raising seedlings in plastic trays before finally transplanting them to a permanent field. Okra grows very well in fertile, well-drained soil preferably loamy. In order to facilitate speedy germination, okra seed should be soaked in water overnight before planting. Intra-row spacing (spacing in between plants on the same row) on a permanent field should be between 30cm and 60cm apart while inter-row(spacing in between rows) should be between 90cm and 120cm apart. About 8 to 10 kg of seed is required per hectare. Planting depth is about 1.5 cm.  Planting is generally recommended to be done between April and July. However, planting of okra can be done all round the year if irrigation method is available.

• Fertilization

It is recommended that soil test should be carried out before planting of okra so as to determine fertility of the soil. A well-composted manure or farm yard manure can be applied at planting at the rate of 15 to 20 t/ha while It should be mixed thoroughly with the soil in the planting hole. Organic fertilizers such as NPK 17:17:17 is also recommended at the rate of 120 kg/ha. The fertilizer should be applied in bands on the side of the furrow where the seeds will be planted and mixed well with the soil.

• Weeding

It should be done as and when necessary.

Credit: Gardeningknowhow | Agriculturenigeria | The Beehive