Okra Watering Advice

Question

Hi, it is my first time vegetable gardening, and I am working with dense clay soil. I’m struggling to figure out how to water my okras because they do prefer well-draining, sandy soil, and I find that the water doesn’t really permeate well deep into the soil, but when it does, it retains moisture well. How do I gauge how much to water? Should I still mulch and water every day, even though I’m working with clay soil and okras love water? Thank you!

Answer 1

That one is a common problem. Working with clay soil typically means it has to be amended. Weeds and grass may grow through clay pretty well, but a garden doesn't typically flourish without at least a little help. Watering clay is hard to gauge The only way to know is to dig down several inches to see if it is almost fully dry or not. Then, when you water, you'll have to water much extra until it is wet. Even then, roots don't go through clay easily.

I'd recommend working in some compost to loosen it up some. Worms can be your best friend too. They help loosen soil fairly quickly. Add extras with your compost.

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/backyard-stories/tough-as-clay

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/special/organic/how-to-easily-improve-your-clay-soil.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/composting/vermicomposting/benefits-of-garden-worms.htm