How to Grow Pusa 2004-1 Okra
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Pusa 2004-1 Okra
Abelmoschus esculentus 'Pusa 2004-1'
vegetablePusa 2004-1 is a high-yielding okra cultivar developed by the Indian Agricultural Research Institute. It produces tender, spineless green pods that are ideal for cooking and markets. This variety is known for excellent productivity, disease resistance, and adaptability to warm climates.
When should you plant Pusa 2004-1 Okra in your zone?
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Example Pusa 2004-1 Okra timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Pusa 2004-1 Okra
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Pusa 2004-1 Okra
Around Jun 6≈ 50 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Pusa 2004-1 Okra dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 10-11; can be grown as warm-season annual in zones 9b and below
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Get my Pusa 2004-1 Okra timeline →Growth Stages
Seedling
2-3 weeksSmall green seedlings emerge with cotyledons, developing first true leaves within 7-10 days
Keep soil consistently moist, maintain temperatures 25-30°C, provide bright light, thin seedlings to strongest plants
Vegetative Growth
3-4 weeksPlant develops sturdy stem with alternate leaves and growing taller; no flowers yet, rapid leaf production
Maintain consistent watering and feeding, apply balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks, monitor for pests, mulch around base
Flowering
2-3 weeksPlant produces cream-colored flowers with dark centers in leaf axils; flowers open in morning and close by afternoon
Continue regular watering, provide phosphorus-rich fertilizer to support pod development, ensure adequate spacing for air circulation
Pod Development & Early Harvest
2-3 weeksFlowers transition to small green pods at flower base; pods elongate and become tender and edible within 3-5 days of flowering
Harvest regularly to encourage continued production, maintain consistent watering, apply potassium-rich fertilizer
Peak Production
4-8 weeksPlant at maximum productivity with multiple tender pods at various development stages; continuous flowering
Harvest every 2-3 days when pods are 4-6 inches long and tender, deadhead spent flowers, maintain nutrition and hydration
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray neem oil or insecticidal soap; install yellow sticky traps; remove infected leaves; encourage natural predators
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and
(Earias vittella)
Remove and destroy affected shoots and fruits; use pheromone traps; apply spinosad or neem; maintain garden cleanliness
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Spray neem oil regularly, increase humidity through misting, use horticultural soap, ensure adequate watering
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Install yellow sticky traps, spray neem oil, use reflective mulches, encourage beneficial insects
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Improve air circulation, apply sulfur spray or neem oil, remove affected leaves, avoid overhead watering
Uses
Vegetable Cooking
CulinaryYoung tender pods are used in curries, stir-fries, tempura, and vegetable side dishes. The spineless variety of Pusa 2004-1 makes handling and preparation easier compared to spiny varieties. [source]
Nutritional Value
CulinaryRich in vitamins A, C, and K, folate, and fiber. Contains polyphenols with antioxidant properties and helps with digestion and blood sugar control. [source]
Traditional Medicine
MedicinalUsed in Ayurvedic and traditional Indian medicine to support digestive health, regulate blood glucose, and provide anti-inflammatory benefits. [source]
Natural Thickening Agent
HouseholdThe mucilage in okra pods serves as a natural thickener for soups, stews, and gravies, particularly valued in Southern and Indian cuisines. [source]
Pollinator Support
WildlifeAttractive cream-colored flowers provide nectar and pollen for bees and other beneficial insects, supporting garden pollination and biodiversity. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Begin harvesting when pods are 4-6 inches long and tender, typically 50-65 days after planting. Harvest every 2-3 days to encourage continuous production. Pick pods in early morning when they snap easily. Young, tender pods are best for cooking; mature, fibrous pods become tough. Regular harvesting extends the production period.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Pusa 2004-1 was developed by the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (now ICAR-IARI) and is widely grown across India due to its high yield and disease resistance.
- 🌱 The spineless characteristic of Pusa 2004-1 makes it significantly more user-friendly than traditional okra varieties, which have fine hairs that can irritate skin during handling.
- 🌱 Okra is believed to have originated in Africa and traveled to India and the Caribbean through trade routes, becoming a staple vegetable in warm-climate cuisines worldwide.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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