Difference between revisions of "Okra"

As it gets up and growing, don’t be too discouraged – okra plants look pitiful when they first start to grow, but give them time. The pale yellow flower that first appears will later turn into a green pod, and when you see this flower, you can tell it is related to the hibiscus quite easily. The pod needs to be harvested when it gets to the desired length, but don’t wait too long, as this pod will get tough and woody. Common problems for this plant are verticillium wilt, which causes yellowing and wilting of the leaves, powdery mildew, and nematodes. Deer like to eat the tender new leaves as well.

As it gets up and growing, don’t be too discouraged – okra plants look pitiful when they first start to grow, but give them time. The pale yellow flower that first appears will later turn into a green pod, and when you see this flower, you can tell it is related to the hibiscus quite easily. The pod needs to be harvested when it gets to the desired length, but don’t wait too long, as this pod will get tough and woody. Common problems for this plant are verticillium wilt, which causes yellowing and wilting of the leaves, powdery mildew, and nematodes. Deer like to eat the tender new leaves as well.

Now down to eating it… okra is high in fiber, vitamin C, and is known for being high in antioxidants. It is also an excellent source for calcium and potassium. The pods have a good amount of vitamin A, which you need to maintain a healthy mucus membrane and skin. They are also rich in the B-complex like niacin, vitamin B-6, thiamin, pantothenic acid (vitamin B5), and vitamin K, which is a co-factor for blood clotting enzymes and strengthening your bones. The pods are also a good source of calcium, manganese, and magnesium – who needs a vitamin pill? They are a low-calorie vegetable, containing no saturated fats or cholesterol, and are often recommended by nutritionists in cholesterol controlling and weight-reduction programs.

Now down to eating it… okra is high in fiber, vitamin C, and is known for being high in antioxidants. It is also an excellent source for calcium and potassium. The pods have a good amount of vitamin A, which you need to maintain a healthy mucus membrane and skin. They are also rich in the B-complex like niacin, vitamin B-6, thiamin, pantothenic acid (vitamin B5), and vitamin K, which is a co-factor for blood clotting enzymes and strengthening your bones. The pods are also a good source of calcium, manganese, and magnesium – who needs a vitamin pill? They are a low-calorie vegetable, containing no saturated fats or cholesterol, and are often recommended by nutritionists in cholesterol controlling and weight-reduction programs.