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Okra or lady finger is one of the most common vegetable consumed in India. Stir fry, Chutney, or Bhindi masala Okra is a delicacy enjoyed in most India states. We are sorry Okra haters!

For gardeners, Okra is easy to grow and an annual crop. There is no need to worry about rainfall or frost. It is yields almost everyday once fruiting starts. However, Okra just like any other plant needs care and maintenance. Especially during the monsoon when plants are prone to pests and fungus.

As a part of our vegetable growing guide series, here is the list of common diseases observed in okra plant along with tips on management.

• Powdery Mildew: If you observe a greyish white powdery formation on your bhindi plant with reduced yield then your plant has this disease. It is a common occurrence in Okra plant and is caused by Fungus.

Source: Tamil Nadu Agriculture Portal

• Fusarium Wilt: This starts off with stunted growth and the plant turning yellow. When the disease is severe, the stem can split and finally blackens. This can kill the plant if not managed properly. Treating the seed in hot water before sowing can help prevent Fusarium Wilt to some extent. But, it is better to practice crop rotation and disease resistant seeds.

Source: Reddit user

• Yellow vein mosaic disease: If the veins of your bhindi leaves start turning yellow with limited growth and produces yellow bhindi instead of green then it is yellow vein mosaic disease. These bhindi are not suitable for consumption.

Source: E-Plant Health YouTube

• Leaf Spot: Leaf spot and defoliation is common in humid and climates as they are caused by fungus. If it is severe with blackish spots, fungicide may have to be used. To prevent leaf spots, give enough space between plants while sowing and avoid soils that retail water like black soil.

Source: Forestry Images

Now that you know the common diseases in Okra plant, keep an eye on your plants for symptoms. Early detection of symptoms will help in better disease management. Remember, good plant moms and dads always keep an eye on their babies!