Okra
Irrigation practices for okra, a popular vegetable in Middle Eastern cuisine.
Season water
450-650 mm
Soil moisture target
70–85%
Recommended irrigation schedule
Adjust slightly based on soil type, local climate, and field observations.
Planting
Immediate irrigation after planting
Establishment
Every 2-3 days
Vegetative Growth
Every 3-4 days
Flowering
Every 2-3 days
Fruit Development
Every 2-3 days
Best practices in the field
- Use drip irrigation for water efficiency and to avoid wetting foliage
- Maintain consistent soil moisture throughout growth
- Critical irrigation during flowering and fruit development
- Harvest pods regularly when young and tender for best quality
- Water in early morning to allow foliage to dry
- Monitor soil moisture at 25-40 cm depth
- Ensure adequate water during hot weather
- Avoid water stress as it causes tough and fibrous pods
Common mistakes to avoid
- Water stress causing tough and fibrous pods
- Irregular watering causing poor pod quality
- Overhead irrigation causing fungal diseases
- Insufficient water during flowering affecting fruit set
- Over-irrigation leading to root problems
- Not harvesting pods regularly leading to reduced production