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Indians love bhindi stir-fry, bhindi masala, kurkuri bhindi, and dahi bhindi. If you are also a fan of these dishes, utilise your balcony space by growing okra (also called ladies' finger) to begin your journey as a gardener. Since okra is a warm-season crop, it is the right time to cultivate in pots, and it won't require much attention apart from sunlight and regular watering.
It grows upright, so you can perfectly cultivate it in small spaces. Not to mention, it's rewarding to pick your own okra to prepare the dishes you love the most. These will also be free from the use of chemicals and pesticides; thus, you will be worry-free while enjoying organic produce from your garden. Whether you're an experienced gardener or a complete novice, this step-by-step guide will help you grow bhindi on your balcony.
Select the Correct Pot or Container
Okra requires space for its roots to spread deep, so get a container that is at least 12 inches deep and 12–14 inches in diameter. If you will be growing more than one plant, use larger containers or multiple containers with 12–18 inches of space between the plants. Ensure they have sufficient drainage holes to avoid root rot.
Get Quality Seeds
Purchase superior-quality seeds from a good nursery or an e-commerce company. Varieties such as Clemson Spineless, Bhindi No. 13, or Arka Anamika are considered best suited to Indian weather, soil, and water. It is possible to enhance germination by soaking the seeds in water for 8–12 hours prior to sowing.
Prepare the Potting Mix
Okra likes well-draining, loamy soil with high organic matter content. Take equal proportions of garden soil, compost, and sand or cocopeat. Add a handful of vermicompost or neem cake for better nutrient value and pest protection. You will witness the rapid growth of plants.
Plant the Seeds
Plant 1–2 seeds per container at least ½ to 1 inch depth in the moistened soil. Water lightly and cover. Place the pot in a warm spot, as bhindi prefers heat and needs a minimum of 6–8 hours of sun every day. Germination should start within 5–10 days.
Watering and Care
Water the plant often, but do not waterlog it. The soil should be moist, not wet, because it will promote root rot. In the hottest summer, you might have to water daily, even twice a day. Mulch the top layer of soil with dry leaves or coconut husk to prevent evaporation of water. Thin the seedlings to one per pot if more than one seed germinates.
Feeding Your Plant
Water the plant with organic liquid fertiliser such as compost tea or diluted buttermilk at intervals of 15–20 days. You may also fill the pot with fresh compost every now and then to promote healthy growth. Avoid using chemical fertilisers if you want to relish organic produce.
Watch for Pests
Okra is usually hardy but may develop pests such as aphids, spider mites, and fruit borers. Spraying neem oil solution (1 tablespoon neem oil + a few drops liquid soap + 1 litre water) every 10–15 days will ward off the pests. Also, pull off the yellowing or infested leaves as soon as possible to prevent the spread of the disease.
Harvesting Okra
The plant will begin to flower in 40–50 days. Pick the pods when they are 2–4 inches long, tender, and green. Don't let them get too old, or they'll be fibrous. Cut the pods off using scissors and harvest every 2–3 days to stimulate new growth.
Post-Harvest Plant Care
Keep watering and feeding your plant once you've harvested. Okra can go on producing pods for many weeks if it's well taken care of. When production drops considerably, you can compost the plant and recycle the soil after working it over.
