Planting Density and Variety on Okra Growth, Yield, and Yield Duration.

Productivity of okra [Abelmoschus esculentus(L.) Moench] can be affected by variety and/or planting density. Field experiments were conducted in the tropical rainforest zone of Nigeria to investigate the effects of planting density on growth, pod yield, and fruiting duration of okra cvs. NHae 47-4, LD 88, and Jokoso. Plants were established at densities of 1, 2, and 3 plants/site (33,333, 66,667, and 99,999 plants·ha−1). Leaf area was decreased and leaf area index (LAI) increased as planting density increased. Cultivar NHae 47-4 had the highest LAI, fewest days to 50% flowering and first fruiting, longer harvest duration, and higher yield than ‘LD 88’ and ‘Jokoso’. Pod yield·per hectare increased as planting density increased. Number of leaves per plant, number of pods, and pod weight per plant decreased as planting density increased. Peak fruit yield was achieved at 12 weeks. Early maturing okra can be established at 3 plants/site (99,999 plants·ha−1) for early and high yield. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]