How to Deal with Lots of Weeds in the Okra Field? A Detailed Guide to Growing Methods

Okra is also called yellow okra and coffee okra, with the common names goat's horn bean and chan eggplant. It is grown in Pingxiang in Jiangxi Province, China, as well as in southern regions of the country, and because its appearance closely resembles a chili pepper, it is also called "foreign chili." In recent years, the economic value of okra has been recognized by many growers, who have made it their preferred planting variety. So, how do you deal with lots of weeds growing in the okra field? What are the okra growing methods?

1. How to deal with lots of weeds growing in the okra field?

For weed control in okra, use herbicides specifically for yellow okra, which come in two types: pre-emergence and post-emergence. Pre-emergence herbicides are used after sowing and before the weeds emerge, while post-emergence herbicides are used when the weeds are at the 3-5 leaf stage. They can kill both grassy narrow-leaf weeds and broadleaf weeds, and are safe for yellow okra.

2. Okra growing methods

1. Land preparation and planting

Okra can be grown outdoors from April to August each year, and it can be eaten in the same year. If grown in a greenhouse, it can be sown earlier and harvested earlier. Okra is generally direct-sown, and before sowing the seeds can first be soaked in warm water for one day for sprouting treatment. Okra is not very strict about soil, but loose, fertile soil with plenty of sunlight can increase yields. Before planting, plow the soil deeply, then apply enough base fertilizer, mainly organic fertilizer. Okra must never be planted in successive cropping.

2. Field management

After okra emerges, carry out timely intertillage and weeding to prevent weeds from competing with it for nutrients. After each fertilization, carry out one intertillage to prevent the soil from becoming compacted and affecting okra growth. If the planting density is high, the lower side branches can be appropriately pruned off later. Okra grows very quickly during the fruiting period, and if there are many storms locally, bamboo poles can be inserted to prevent lodging.

3. Water and fertilizer management

Okra has a relatively long growing period and large plants, so it has a high demand for water and fertilizer. On the premise of applying enough base fertilizer early on, multiple topdressings should also be carried out. After emergence, carry out the first topdressing, mainly with urea. During the fruiting period, apply more fertilizer to promote high yields. Okra is relatively drought-tolerant and does not need much water at the seedling stage. In summer, pay attention to keeping the soil moist, and drain standing water promptly after rain to prevent root rot and death.

4. Pest and disease control

Okra has relatively few pests and diseases. During continuous overcast and rainy weather, disease spots appear on the branches and leaves. After the weather clears, lime can be spread to prevent transmission, and in the early stage an appropriate amount of Bordeaux mixture can be sprayed for control. The main pests include aphids and cutworms, and carbaryl wettable powder can be sprayed.

5. Harvesting

What is eaten from okra is the tender pod, so timely harvesting is very important. Too early will affect yield, while too late will cause it to become old and reduce the taste. Harvesting is generally carried out one week after the flowers fade. The best time to harvest is in the evening, and care should be taken not to damage the branches and stems when harvesting. The harvest period can last as long as 3 months.