Okra

Abelmoschus esculentus

Role: Fast growing temporary shade and food crop for young cocoa seedlings

Spacing: 30cm between plants, 60-90cm between rows

Benefits: Pods within 2-3 months; provides light shade for newly planted cocoa; nutritious and culturally relevant; low maintenance; suitable for smallholder income generation

Planting notes: Sow around new cocoa seedlings to provide temporary protection from the afternoon sun. Production is best in the first 4 – 6 months. Harvest frequently to encourage continued pod production. Replant annually for consistent yields.