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Starting okra indoors is often met with mixed results due to the plant's delicate nature in early stages and the importance of its taproot. While germination typically occurs without issue, many people report damping-off shortly after sprouting. This fungal condition is exacerbated by overly moist environments, poor air circulation, and inadequate light. Okra also relies on a strong taproot system that doesn't tolerate disturbance well, making transplanting difficult. Even when moved to the garden during ideal conditions, plants often fail to thrive if their roots were disrupted. To improve success, use biodegradable pots to allow direct planting without disturbing roots, maintain dry but not arid soil conditions, and gradually harden off plants before transplanting. In many cases, direct sowing in warm soil post-frost is the most reliable method. These can help:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/propagation/seeds/what-is-damping-off.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/vegetables/okra/planting-okra.htm​:contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

That one is a common problem. Working with clay soil typically means it has to be amended. Weeds and grass may grow through clay pretty well, but a garden doesn't typically flourish without at least a little help. Watering clay is hard to gauge The only way to know is to dig down several inches to see if it is almost fully dry or not. Then, when you water, you'll have to water much extra until it is wet. Even then, roots don't go through clay easily.

I'd recommend working in some compost to loosen it up some. Worms can be your best friend too. They help loosen soil fairly quickly. Add extras with your compost.

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/backyard-stories/tough-as-clay

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/special/organic/how-to-easily-improve-your-clay-soil.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/composting/vermicomposting/benefits-of-garden-worms.htm