How to Grow Okra in New Zealand
A heat lover that needs the warmest spot in the garden. In Auckland start seed indoors from August and plant out once the soil is properly warm, or grow in a glasshouse. Pick pods young at 5 to 7cm or they turn woody.
When to plant okra in New Zealand
Timing is everything in New Zealand, where the warm north and the cooler south are weeks apart. Sow or plant in these months for your region:
| Region | When to sow or plant |
|---|---|
| Northland | September, October, November, December |
| Auckland | September, October, November, December |
Best okra varieties for NZ
- Clemson Spineless — Standard spineless okra with tender green pods, reliable cropper. (Kings Seeds, Egmont Seeds)
- Burgundy — Striking deep-red pods on tall plants, good flavour and ornamental. (Kings Seeds, Egmont Seeds)
How to grow okra
- Space plants about 40cm apart.
- Sow seed around 2cm deep.
- Position: full sun.
- Ready to harvest in roughly 75 days.
- Seeds germinate in about 10 days.
Companion planting
Grow okra near: Basil, Capsicum.
Pests and problems
Watch for: Aphids, Whitefly. See our NZ pest and disease guide for organic control.
For a calendar tuned to your exact region, see the New Zealand planting guides or the Okra plant page.
FAQ
When is the best time to plant okra in New Zealand?
In the warm north (Auckland, Northland) sow in September, October, November, December. Cooler regions plant a little later. Check the table above for your region.
Where can I buy okra seeds or plants in NZ?
Try Kings Seeds, Egmont Seeds.