Abstract:
This study was conducted for one season at the experimental farm of the
College of Agricultural Studies, Sudan University of Science and
Technology at Shambat to study the effect of sowing dates (July – August)
on growth and seed yield and quality of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.
Moench). Two okra cultivars (Khartomia and Wadgamar), and three
different sowing dates (1/7, 18/7, 11/8) were tested using a split plot design
with four replications. The late sowing (18/7, 11/8) had a significant
negative effect on vegetative growth (plant height and days to 50%
flowering) compared to the early one (1st of July). This was also reflected
on seed yield and its components (pod and seed yield and shelling
percentage), especially, for sowings later than mid July. Seed quality (seed
weight and seedling growth) of both cultivars was negatively affected by
sowings in third week of July and second week of August. It could be
concluded that sowing in the first week of July, may be suitable for okra
seed production.