Growing A Papaya Tree

Plant papaya trees in full sunshine and fertile, well drained soil. They need some protection from strong winds as their fleshy trunks can snap. A south facing site a few yards from a wall is ideal as it will be warm and protected. Leave at least 10 feet between each plant to prevent competition for light and nutrients. Never plant papayas in soil that is prone to water logging. In wet gardens, grow up to three paw paw trees together on a mound at least two feet high and four feet across.

Water your papaya plant when the surface of their soil starts to dry out. Never let papayas dry out to the point where their leaves wilt or they will lose flowers and fruit. Reduce watering during the winter, as your plants should receive enough water from the rain.

Fertilize paw paw plants regularly during the warmer months with a balanced granular fertilizer. Do not fertilize at all during the coldest two months of the year. Feed young plants with a quarter pound of balanced fertilizer every two weeks for the first year. Established plants need up to two pounds every other month, especially if grown in light or sandy soils. A layer of mulch around you papaya retains moisture and nutrients. Keep it at least three inches deep but do not allow it to touch the trunk as it can cause rot.

Grow paw paw plants from seed collected from a ripe fruit that was particularly tasty. Rub in a sieve to remove their soft, outer sack, wash well and sow immediately. Plant half a dozen seeds in standard potting compost. Plant the three most vigorous seedlings into the garden once they are about six inches tall.

Harvest the fruit as they start turn turn yellow on the plant. They can be made into smoothies and are delicious in a fruit salad along with orange and fortified wine such as port. Alternatively, harvest the fruit when still green and shred them up to make Thai-style green papaya salads.