When and How to Harvest Okra (Pod Size, Storage)

Harvest okra when the pods are 2–3 inches (5–8 cm) long, which is about 60 to 70 days after planting, and then pick at least every two days. Clemson says okra grows very quickly, so pods that look small on Monday can be oversized by Thursday. This page belongs to our okra growing guide.

How big should okra pods be?

The sources agree on a size window. Clemson says 2- to 3-inch-long pods are still tender. UGA says okra should be ready to harvest about 60 to 70 days after planting, when pods are 2 to 3 inches long. NC State puts the harvest size at 3 inches.

Clemson’s wording is that pods of this size are “still tender”, which is the case for picking early. None of our sources gives the exact size at which a pod turns tough.

How soon do pods arrive?

Two of the four agree on 60–70 days. NC State’s longer figure may reflect cooler growing conditions, but it does not say so. If your pods are slow, check the season first: Clemson says okra grows best at 75–90°F (24–32°C).

How often to pick

Clemson is blunt: okra must be harvested at least every two days. In practice that means walking the rows every other day once pods start. Skipping a few days makes more pods outgrow the tender stage.

Do you need gloves?

Our sources do not mention gloves, skin irritation or how to cut the pods, so we will not advise one way or the other. One variety Clemson lists is named Clemson Spineless 80, which suggests spines are a trait that varies by variety, though the source does not say more. If your plants irritate your skin, wear gloves; that is our general caution, not sourced.

How to harvest okra

1. Look for 2–3 in. pods. Check every plant, including the lower and inner ones.
2. Pick every other day. At least every two days, per Clemson.
3. Take the pods at the tender stage. Clemson says pods of 2–3 in. are tender. Leave none to grow oversize.
4. Cool and store them promptly. Keep them moist at 45–50°F (7–10°C), Clemson’s optimum.

Storing fresh okra

Okra is not cured. Clemson says the optimum conditions for storing fresh okra are a moist environment and temperatures of 45°F to 50°F. UGA says okra can be stored in the refrigerator for about seven days, and Texas A&M says 3 to 5 days. Plan on the shorter figure if you want to use pods at their best.

Our sources do not cover freezing, pickling or drying, so we leave those methods out.

Problems near harvest

• Small pods rot after flowers drop. Clemson says this is a common problem. Plant in full sun and ensure good air movement to reduce it.
• Pests. NC State lists aphids, corn earworms, slugs, whiteflies and spider mites.
• Slow plants. Root-knot nematodes cause galls on roots (Clemson).

Keep the plants producing

Regular picking is the main task, and water supports it. UGA recommends a deep soaking every 7–10 days with 1–1.5 in. (2.5–4 cm) in prolonged dry periods, and Clemson says to water frequently during high heat. Texas A&M says okra does fairly well when it is dry but that watering every 7 to 10 days raises yield.

For the planting side, see how to grow okra from seed. If your garden has no sunny bed, see what we can say about okra in containers.