To learn how to grow papaya, the first step is to acknowledge the tropical essence of this tree. Papayas are from Central America, and they're fast-growing tropical trees that grow best in frost-free areas. However, they can also adapt to subtropical zones with the proper precautions. I harvested my first, healthy papaya 9 months after I planted seeds from the fruit I bought at the supermarket.
Seed Preparation
- Soak seeds 3 days to remove germination inhibitors
- Dry 24 hours on paper towels
- Test viability with float method
Soil Setup
- Mix 40% compost + 30% sand + 30% topsoil
- Check pH 5.5-6.5 using test strips
- Pre-water beds 24 hours pre-planting
Ongoing Care
- Water 1-2 gallons every 3 days
- Fertilize with 10-10-10 monthly
- Mulch 4-inch layer around base
Utilize organic neem oil sprays to combat common pests.To create the spray, mix 1 tablespoon of neem oil with 1 quart of water and add in ½ teaspoon of dish soap. Spray the underside of the leaves once a week.Last summer, this simple remedy saved my container plants from whiteflies and didn't harm pollinators.
Hand-pollination increases the quantity harvested by 40% in a protected garden.Use cotton swabs to take pollen from any male flower and deposit it into the mouth of a female flower every morning. Look for a pronounced ovary bulge under the petals of female blooms and within six weeks, that will develop into fruit.
Read the full article: How to Grow Papaya: 8 Essential Steps for Success
