UPDATE: Fall is here, and gardeners are urged to harvest okra seeds immediately to ensure a thriving crop next year. With the season winding down, this is the perfect time to collect seeds from your okra plants, which can yield hundreds of seeds from just a few pods.
As the harvesting season approaches its end, many home gardeners have more okra pods than they can use. Left on the plant, these pods can mature into seeds, offering a free resource for next year’s planting. Collecting and saving seeds not only saves money but also guarantees that your plants will flourish in your garden, ensuring the flavors you love continue season after season.
Harvesting okra seeds should begin now as pods grow larger and turn brown. Ideal conditions for collecting seeds occur approximately 60-70 days after sowing, or 40-50 days from transplanting. Pods should be left on the plant until they are brittle and start cracking, signaling that the seeds are ready to be harvested.
Gardeners should remember to focus on open-pollinated heirloom varieties, as hybrid seeds do not guarantee the same traits when replanted. Additionally, it’s crucial to grow only one variety of okra to avoid unwanted cross-pollination, which could result in unpredictable outcomes.
Once the pods have dried completely on the plant, harvesting is straightforward. Wearing gardening gloves is recommended, as okra pods have fine spines that can irritate the skin. Use pruning shears or scissors to remove the pods, then bring them indoors to finish drying.
After drying, lay the pods flat on a tray in a cool, well-ventilated area. It’s essential to ensure seeds are completely dry before storage to prevent mold and rot. Once ready, break open the pods and collect the seeds. Store them in a sealed paper envelope or an airtight glass container. Repurposing glass food jars or spice jars makes for excellent DIY seed storage solutions.
With proper conditions, okra seeds can remain viable for up to three years, but using them the following season is recommended for the best results.
As you prepare for next spring, soaking okra seeds in warm water before planting can enhance germination rates and overall success. Simply place the seeds in a bowl of warm water for a few hours, dry them, and then plant them in potting mix.
This fall, take the opportunity to cultivate your gardening skills and ensure a bountiful harvest of okra for the coming years. Share this urgent update with fellow gardeners and spread the word about the benefits of saving okra seeds!
