Growing papayas

Young papaya plants are ready to be planted out in the open when they are about 200mm tall, measured from the base of the stem to the growing point. It is important that they be planted upright.

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Papaya seedlings are usually planted in 150mm-high bags. The plants should be transplanted when they are around 200mm tall; they are then strong enough to survive in the open.

The best time to plant is during late summer and autumn (February to April), except in areas where winter temperatures drop below 6°C. In these areas, papayas should be planted from late spring to mid-summer (October to January) so that the plants are reasonably mature before the onset of winter. In most parts of South Africa, late summer planting is ideal, as this gives the plant the chance to mature to the flowering phase (September to December).

Papayas planted in late spring to mid-summer will also begin to flower in September but will be much taller than those planted in late summer.

This will mean a shorter economic lifespan.

PLANTING

Make a small hole with a spade at each planting position, removing one spadeful of soil. The hole should be about 200mm x 200mm x 200mm.