Papaya is a vibrant and tropical plant with large, lobed leaves and a slender trunk. It produces delicious and nutritious fruit, known for its sweet and juicy flesh. Papaya plants thrive in warm climates and are often cultivated for their ornamental beauty as well as their delectable harvest.
Planting Calendar
Papayas grow well in tropical and subtropical zones and can be planted at any time of the year. In warm, temperate, frost-free areas, plant in spring or early summer to give the tree plenty of time to become established before winter.
Harvest In
1 - 2 Years Depending on variety
Papaya trees usually fruit around 8 to 10 months after planting. In cooler areas, they will stop flowering through winter but start blooming again once the weather warms up. Pick fruit when the skin is green-yellow and a little soft to the touch. Fruit can also be picked earlier and allowed to ripen indoors.
Prepare
Position
Papayas like to be warm with both sunshine and reflected heat, so the hottest place against the house is ideal. They also like to be as free from wind as possible, although this is not as critical as their need for sun. Papayas can be grown successfully in shade, but the fruit is rarely sweet. They are best planted in mounds or against the foundation of a building where water can be controlled.
Soil
When planted into the ground Papaya prefer a free-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. To improve the organic content in your soil, break up the soil and add Kings Compost and Kings Sheep Pellets then mix together well. When growing in containers, plant into Kings Container Mix. This mix contains Saturaid which helps with moisture retention in the soil.
Pollination
Fruit is produced within 2 years if male and female flowers are present. Male and female flowers may be produced on the same plant or separate plants. A plant may vary from male to female during the year. Therefore, to ensure pollination more than one plant is needed.
Plant
When planting into the ground, gently tap the plant out of its pot. Dig a hole twice the depth and width of the plant’s root ball. Mix Kings Compost into your existing soil at a 50/50 ratio, add Kings Sheep Pellets and Kings Citrus & Fruit Tree Fertiliser, then mix together well. Backfill the hole with this soil, so that when planted, the top of the plant’s roots sit level with the surrounding ground. Insert a hardwood stake next to the plant, being careful not to damage the roots, and tie the tree to it for support with tree-tie. Firm the soil down gently and water in well with Aquaticus Organic Garden Booster. In heavier clay soils, where drainage is likely to be an issue, plant onto a raised mound and sprinkle Gypsum Clay Breaker into the bottom of the hole, this helps slowly condition the soil and will help to break down the clay.
Care
Watering
Watering is the most critical aspect in raising papayas. They should be kept on the dry side to avoid root rot, but also need enough water to support their large leaves. In winter the plant prefers to remain as dry as possible. A plant that has been injured by frost is particularly susceptible to root rot.
Feeding
When planted in the ground, liquid feed every month with Aquaticus Organic Garden Booster, from Spring through to the end of Autumn. This encourages root growth and increases microbial activity in the soil. Monthly applications of Kings Sheep Pellets will help with soil conditioning and plant health. In addition, apply Kings Citrus & Fruit Tree Fertiliser in spring and again in autumn to provide the plant with all the nutrients it needs. If planted into a container, feed every 3 months with Kings Slow Release Citrus Food, along with monthly applications of Aquaticus Organic Garden Booster this encourages strong roots and a healthy immune system.
Protecting
Papaya do not like the cold, so protect from frost by covering with frost cloth. If possible build a frame around the plant and cover with clear plastic until the weather warms up again.
Pruning
Papayas do not need to be pruned, but you can pinch the seedlings or cut back established plants to encourage multiple trunks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Papaya and Paw Paw?
Papaya and pawpaw are the same species but different cultivars. Fruit colour and shape varies. Papaya is typically pear-shaped with red-orange flesh, while pawpaw is rounder, with yellow skin and flesh. Papaya is also sweeter than pawpaw.
How often should I water my papaya tree?
Watering is the most critical aspect in raising papayas. They should be kept on the dry side to avoid root rot, but also need enough water to support their large leaves. In winter the plant prefers to remain as dry as possible. A plant that has been injured by frost is particularly susceptible to root rot.
When should I fertilise my papaya tree?
When planted in the ground, liquid feed every month with Aquaticus Organic Garden Booster, from Spring through to the end of Autumn. This encourages root growth and increases microbial activity in the soil. Monthly applications of Kings Sheep Pellets will help with soil conditioning and plant health. In addition, apply Kings Citrus & Fruit Tree Fertiliser in spring and again in autumn to provide the plant with all the nutrients it needs. If planted into a container, feed every 3 months with Kings Slow Release Citrus Food, along with monthly applications of Aquaticus Organic Garden Booster this encourages strong roots and a healthy immune system.
How do I prune my papaya tree?
Papayas do not need to be pruned, but you can pinch the seedlings or cut back established plants to encourage multiple trunks.
Why are the leaves on my papaya tree turning yellow?
Yellowing leaves can indicate overwatering, nutrient deficiencies, or root problems. Check soil moisture levels and consider fertilising if necessary.