Southern gardeners know that some vegetables are better suited to the sweltering summer heat than others. But did you know that okra, a staple of Southern cuisine, is one of the few that actually thrives in the hot weather? Unlike other summer vegetables that wither away in the intense heat, okra loves the warm temperatures and can continue to produce a bountiful harvest well into the summer months. For those looking to get a head start on next year's garden, planting okra in the late summer or early fall can give them a jumpstart on the growing season and ensure a steady supply of this versatile vegetable throughout the year.
While it's too late to start planting many summer vegetables, this Southern classic actually thrives when planted in hot weather.