Clemson Spineless 80

Okra

Zone 5a Save Garden

Botanical illustration of Clemson Spineless 80

🌱 55d to harvest Upright

Tender pods with a famously smooth, spineless feel—Clemson Spineless 80 delivers a silky, crisp bite and a fresh, green sweetness…

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Direct Sow
Last Frost	May 8th
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	May 8th
Harvest Begins	Jul 2nd
Harvest Ends	Sep 30th

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	55
Sun Requirements	Full Sun
Growth Habit	Upright
Support Needed	None
Planting Depth	Normal
Germination Temp (°F)	70
Min Soil Temp (°F)	65
Min Night Temp (°F)	50
Harden Off (days)	Not Required

Recommended Companions

Genovese Compact Improved Basil

Serrano Tampiqueño Pepper

Frequently Asked Questions

What pest or disease problem is most common for Abelmoschus esculentus (okra), and how can I address it?

Okra commonly suffers from powdery mildew, especially during humid spells, showing as a white, dusty coating on leaves and tender stems. Improve airflow by spacing plants and removing heavily infected lower leaves, then apply a labeled sulfur or potassium bicarbonate fungicide early in the outbreak for best results. If you see wilting with yellowing, also check for root-knot nematodes—pull and destroy badly affected plants and rotate out of okra/mallows next season.

How often should I water okra during the main growing phase (around flowering and pod set)?

During active growth and pod set, Abelmoschus esculentus prefers consistently moist soil, not soggy. Water about 1–2 times per week to keep the top 1–2 inches of soil evenly moist, increasing frequency in hot weather while avoiding waterlogging. Mulch helps stabilize moisture, but don’t let water sit around the crown.

How can I tell when Clemson Spineless okra pods (Abelmoschus esculentus) are ready to harvest?

Harvest pods at about 55 days to maturity and then repeatedly through the season, because pods become tough quickly. Pick when pods are young and tender—typically around 3–4 inches long and still easy to pierce with a fingernail. If pods start feeling fibrous or you can see the seeds bulging inside, harvest immediately (or you’ve waited too long for the best texture).

Tender pods with a famously smooth, spineless feel—Clemson Spineless 80 delivers a silky, crisp bite and a fresh, green sweetness that shines in every harvest. The pods are slender and uniform, holding their appeal with a clean, non-fibrous texture that’s ideal for quick roasting, vibrant stir-fries, and spoon-ready sauces. Grow this reliable 55-day favorite for abundant, garden-to-table pods that look as good as they taste.

Sowing Tips

Transplant Conditions

Wait until soil reaches 65°F and nights stay above 50°F before moving outdoors.

Expert Note

Okra is heat-dependent—wait until soil is warm and nights stay above 50°F, and you’ll get faster, more uniform stands.