Free shipping on orders over $60

Clemson Spineless

Abelmoschus esculentus

$3.99

13 g Approximately

Clemson Spineless Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) is a highly popular, spineless variety developed in 1939, widely grown for its tender, flavorful green pods. This heat-loving, drought-tolerant plant thrives in warm conditions and is an excellent addition to summer gardens. It’s most commonly used in Cajun dishes, soups, gumbos, and stews. Hardy in USDA zones 5-12, this variety matures in 55-60 days and can grow up to 5-6 feet tall in longer, warmer seasons.

Disclaimer: Product images are provided for illustrative purposes only and may not be an exact representation of the product. The actual product may vary due to a variety of factors.

34 in stock

  • Days to Germination: 7-14 days
  • Days to Maturity: 55-60 days
  • Planting Time: Start seeds indoors 3-4 weeks before last frost or direct sow after last frost
  • Sunlight Requirement: Full sun
  • Soil Temperature: 75-90°F
  • Soil pH: 5.8-7.0 (neutral to slightly acidic)
  • Plant Spacing: 12-18 inches in rows 3 feet apart
  • Height: Up to 60 inches
  • Frost Hardy: No

Seed Preparation:

  • Soak seeds for 24 hours to encourage faster germination.

Indoor Sowing (for short growing seasons):

  • Timing: Sow indoors 3-4 weeks before the last frost.
  • Planting Depth: Sow seeds 3/4 inch deep in peat pots.
  • Temperature: Maintain a soil temperature of 80-90°F for optimal germination.

Direct Sowing (for warmer climates):

  • Sow seeds 3/4 inch deep directly in the garden after the last frost, once soil temperatures consistently reach 60°F.
  • Plant in full sun, spacing seeds 12-15 inches apart in rows 3 feet apart. Thin seedlings to the strongest plant per group.

Growing Tips

  • Moisture: Keep soil consistently moist, especially in dry periods. Okra requires about 1-1.5 inches of water per week.
  • Mulching helps conserve moisture and control weeds.
  • Weeding: Maintain weed-free rows, as okra seedlings compete poorly with weeds.
  • Temperature: Okra thrives in heat; using black plastic or row covers in cooler climates can help maintain necessary warmth.

Harvesting

  • Timing: Begin harvesting when pods reach 2-3 inches long for the best taste and tenderness.
  • Frequency: Harvest every other day to promote continuous production, as mature pods will slow down growth.
  • Method: Cut pods from the stem just above the cap.

Nutritional and Culinary Use

  • Nutrients: Okra pods are rich in fiber, vitamins A, C, and folate.
  • Flavor: Strong, meaty flavor; often boiled or fried.
  • Culinary Use: Adds body and flavor to dishes like gumbo, stews, and soups. Okra is ideal for pickling or enjoyed as a fried snack.

Clemson Spineless Okra remains a top choice for both home and market gardens due to its productivity, spineless stems, and adaptability to warm climates. Regular harvesting encourages abundant yields throughout the growing season.