When to plant Okra in Lawrence County, IL
In Lawrence County, plant Okra in spring between April 20 and May 11, once soil temps hold above 50°F. Lawrence County's last frost averages April 13, so time plantings around the expected last-frost window for best survival. For a fall crop, sow between and — roughly 50–65 days before the first frost on October 27.
When to Plant Okra in Lawrence County, IL
Okra is a heat-loving tropical plant that produces edible seed pods. It thrives in hot summers and produces beautiful hibiscus-like flowers before setting pods.
Lawrence County, Illinois is in USDA Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 13 and the first fall frost is October 27, giving you a growing season of approximately 197 days.
At an elevation of 969 feet, Lawrence County receives approximately 35.3 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 88°F, providing good warmth for Okra during the growing season.
Lawrence County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
How Much Okra to Grow
For a family of 4, plant approximately 16 okra plants in about 32 sq ft. In Lawrence County's 197-day season, you'll have plenty of time for a full harvest. Plan your garden layout →
Okra Planting Timeline — Lawrence County, IL
Okra Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | February 16 | Feb 16 – Mar 2 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 27 | Apr 27 – May 11 |
| Direct Sow | April 20 | Apr 20 – May 11 |
| Harvest | June 22 | Jun 22 – Aug 17 |
Plant 1" deep · 30" apart · Rows 42" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | Start Indoors |
| March | Start Indoors |
| April | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| May | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| June | Harvest |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
Moderate — regular watering
📅 Days to Maturity
50–65 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7.5 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 6b
📆 Growing Season
197 days in Lawrence County
Growing Tips for Lawrence County
Direct sow after soil reaches 65F. Soak seeds overnight to improve germination. Harvest pods when 2-4 inches long and still tender; they become tough if left too long.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Okra in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Okra in Lawrence County, IL?
Lawrence County is in Zone 6b with an average last frost of April 13. Plan your Okra planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Lawrence County, IL?
Lawrence County, Illinois is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 13 and first fall frost is October 27.
When should I plant Okra in Lawrence County, IL?
In Lawrence County, IL, plant Okra after the last frost (around April 13) and before the first frost (around October 27). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Lawrence County, IL for Okra?
Lawrence County sits in USDA Zone 6b. Okra grows reliably in zones 5a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Okra grow in Lawrence County's climate?
Yes — Okra grows well in Lawrence County's temperate climate. Lawrence County averages a 197-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 13 and first frost around October 27.
Your Lawrence County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Lawrence County (Zone 6b). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.