When should okra pods be harvested?
Okra is a warm-season mallow whose young tender seed capsules are eaten as a vegetable.
Structure, development and life cycle
Large flowers quickly develop into long ridged capsules. Cell walls toughen and become fibrous as pods enlarge, so most cultivars are picked tender only days after flowering. Frequent harvest supports continued flowering and fruiting. The mucilaginous material inside thickens foods and consists of natural plant polysaccharides.
Growing, uses and cautions
Warm soil, full sun and regular water are needed, while cold slows germination and growth. Hairs on leaves and pods may irritate skin, making gloves useful. Pods kept for seed remain until fully mature and dry. Vegetable and seed harvests occur at different stages.
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