Freezing the seed before planting is the best method to improve germination because this breaks the hard seed coat. Plant okra in rows 3 to 6 feet apart with 9 to 12 inches between seed in the row. Plant okra about three-quarters inch deep. Information on soil testing is available in Soil Testing , HGIC 1652 . Follow the results of a soil test to maintain a soil pH between 5.8 and 6.5 and optimal fertility levels.
Okra tends to respond to a high phosphate fertilizer.
The use of additional nitrogen should be avoided on vigorous plantings until fruiting begins to check plant growth. Two or more sidedressings with a high analysis nitrogen material may be needed, however, depending on rainfall. The garden should be watered in the morning so that the foliage is dry before dark. Water the garden sufficiently to moisten the soil to a depth of 6 inches. Light sprinklings will encourage shallow rooting of the plants.