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Okra

Clemson Spineless

Malvaceae

Spacing1 per sq ft
Days to Harvest55d
Expected Yield10-20 pods per plant

Okra

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Variety History

Clemson Spineless, developed in 1939 at Clemson University, is the most widely grown okra in the world. It is spineless (less irritating to harvest) and produces tender pods.

Regional Context

Okra in the PNW is a stretch. It needs sustained heat that our summers often do not provide. Attempt only if you have a very warm microclimate (against a south-facing brick wall, for instance) and are willing to accept potential failure. Clemson Spineless is the classic variety — if it cannot produce here, nothing will.

Growing Technique

Start indoors 4-6 weeks before transplanting (early-to-mid April) — okra seeds have hard coats; soak in warm water overnight before planting. Transplant to warm soil in late May to early June. Space 12-18" apart (1 per sq ft). Okra loves heat and will grow slowly until July, then explode. Harvest pods at 2-4" — bigger pods are tough and woody. Harvest every other day — pods mature fast. Wear gloves and long sleeves; okra plants have irritating spines.

Watch For

  • Okra is a Southern crop that struggles in the PNW. Cool nights slow growth dramatically. Plant in the hottest microclimate — black plastic mulch, south-facing wall. Aphids on new growth. Root knot nematodes (not common on Bainbridge). Pods become woody if not harvested promptly — check daily.

Recipes