Lady's Finger

Days to harvest

50–65 days

Sunlight

5–7 hours/day

Watering

1–1 per day

Plant spacing

45 cm

Minimum container size

30cm deep × 35cm wide

Container-friendly

2 plants per container

Estimated yield

180 kg / 100m²

Life span

annual

Climate Requirements

Ideal temperature

25-35 °C

Annual rainfall

1500-2500 mm

Humidity

60-80%

Heat tolerance

high

Drought tolerance

moderate

Loves heat — one of the most resilient urban crops. Actually produces better in hot conditions. Increase watering during dry spells but otherwise very low maintenance.

Soil & Planting

Companion Plants

• Sweet Basilstrong

  Basil placed near okra repels whitefly, the vector for yellow vein mosaic virus that causes significant okra crop losses

• Bird's Eye Chilimoderate

  Capsaicin volatiles from chili confuse aphids seeking okra plants; okra height provides wind shelter to chili

• Sweet Potatoweak

  Sweet potato ground cover reduces soil splash during rain (reducing Fusarium root infection); different root depths avoid competition

• Roselleweak

  Both Malvaceae family with compatible cultural needs; roselle attracts pollinators

Plants to Avoid Nearby

• Cucumber

  Both are aggressive feeders; in humid conditions, shared beds between okra and cucumber increase risk of powdery mildew spreading between them via spore dispersal

Common Pests & Diseases

Safety Notes

Harvest frequently to maintain production. Observe 3-day PHI for contact pesticides. Wear long sleeves when harvesting — okra hairs can irritate skin. Use organic sprays where possible.

Market Demand

High demand; popular in curries and stir-fry

Regional Notes

Grows fast in Malaysian heat

Sources

• Vegetable Growing Guide for Malaysia — DOA Malaysia · Last reviewed: 2026-04-12