How to Glean Okra Seeds

Okra pods ready for seed gleaning

Gleaning okra seeds is a great way to save money and to be certain of a good crop of okra next season. Okra is a versatile vegetable that grows very tall. Its edible crop is best snapped or cut off when it is smaller than 3 inches long; left to grow any larger, they impart a woody flavor and displeasing texture.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Sharp knife
• Brown paper bag
• Plate
• Ziplock bag

1. Good sized pods ready for gleaning seeds

   Allow okra pods to grow to an over-sized length and snap or pick them off the stalk, or simply allow the pods to wither and dry before harvesting

2. Thumb and forefinger action of extraction

   Slice the pods lengthwise from top to bottom and pry pods apart at the slit with thumb and forefinger.

3. Removal of okra seeds

   Remove okra seeds with the thumbnail. The seeds come out readily and are quite large.

4. Okra seeds on a plate

   Collect seeds on a plate and place on a brown paper bag to dry out.

5. Place seeds in a ziplock bag when completely dried and store in a cool, dry place.

Tips & Warnings

• Okra will keep producing pods right up until frost.

• Ensure pods are free of bugs before using them for seed gleaning.

Resources

• History of Okra
• Story From an Okra Lover
• Seed Saver's Exchange
• About Okra Oil