Indian Bhindi

Indian Okra, or Bhindi, is often a darker green pod that stays tender longer, is shiny and smooth, and easy to pick. This variety was initially grown for our catalog by Nital Vadalia-Kakadia who says:

"My mother-in-law has been growing them for many many years and she saves the seeds each year. She gave me some and I grow them in my backyard each year as well. Bhindi is one of my family's favorite vegetables. It is cooked in many different ways: stuffed, fried, and sauteed, and they all taste fabulous! It is also special to me because it reminds me of my mother's and aunt's kitchen growing up, and the aroma of the Bhindi cooking in spices is just unbeatable!!"

Also known as Lady Fingers.

Days to maturity: 55

Seeds per pack: 20-25

Germination rate: 85% on 12/05/2023

Planting / harvesting notes

Sow seeds of this heat-loving plant indoors 2-3 weeks before transplanting, which should happen several weeks after the last frost, or when soil temperatures stay above 65 degrees Fahrenheit. Soak seeds overnight for quicker germination, and plant 3/4" deep. Space 18" in rows 12-18" apart. Beds should be at least 3' apart as plants tend to bush out widely. Okra likes fertile, well-drained soil with added compost.

Seed keeping notes

Okra is insect-pollinated. Isolate different okra varieties by at least 1/8th of a mile (or up to 1/2 mile if you are truly concerned about seed purity) to avoid unwanted cross pollination. Allow pods to grow large and turn brown and woody (your neighbors may look at you funny). When you can hear the seeds rattle, harvest the pod and allow it to dry further on trays in the sun in a dry place. Remove seeds and use breath, wind, or fans to remove bits of chaff.

Collections