Best organic fertilizers for okra plant

Each vegetable plant has its requirement to grow well and give yields. All plants require the basic nutrients nitrogen, potassium and phosphorous(N-P-K). The right kind of N-P-K ratio is necessary for improving the overall quality and yield of the plant. Okra needs fertilising from the beginning of its growth to grow into a healthy plant and give good yields. Also, fertilising okra plants helps to suppress pests and other diseases.

Best organic fertilizers for okra

1.Coffee grounds

Coffee grounds help to improve soil structure and increase soil fertility. They contain nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium. You can add them to your compost and then use them on your plants. You can also simply sprinkle them in the soil.

2.Cocoa husk

Cocoa husk is a good fertilizer for okra plants. It contains various nutrients like nitrogen potassium and phosphorus, calcium and magnesium that are required for the plant. You can make compost using 2 parts of cocoa husk, one part grass clippings and one part manure. After all the materials are properly composted you can use it to fertilize your plants.

3.Compost

Compost made in homes from kitchen scraps, and other materials is also a good fertilizer for okra plants. While preparing compost adding sufficient levels of animal manure helps to increase nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium levels in the soil. Chicken, cow, goat or horse manure can be added to the compost. Cat or dog manure should not be added to the compost. Using compost for your okra plants can improve the yields of your plant. Here is how to make compost in your homes.

4. Fish emulsion

Fish emulsion is the best organic fertilizers for okra. You can use it as a water-soluble fertiliser for your plant. Add 2 tablespoons of fish emulsion to one gallon of water. You can then use it on your plants.

5.Eggshells

Eggshells are rich in calcium and contain trace levels of sodium and potassium in the soil. Adding eggshells to the soil can help the plant to grow free from pests. Here is how to use eggshells as a fertiliser for your plants.

How to use the fertiliser

Mix homemade fertiliser well into the soil before planting your okra plant. After your okra plants have grown 6 to 8 inches tall, dig a small trench a few inches away from your okra plant and add the fertiliser. You can then cover it with soil and water it well. Reapply the fertiliser once in 4 weeks during the growing season. If you are growing okra in containers make sure to add fertiliser once in 2 or 3 weeks as the nutrients can deplete quickly. Okra needs a balance of all nutrients N-P-K.