Cultivation of papaya

Papaya must be cross pollinated in order to produce fruit.

Land preparation depends on the type of soil, area to be planted, purpose of the orchard and the equipment and labor available. Papayas require rich, well drained soil, if the soil is heavy or sandy, add compost and manure.

Depending on the drainage and the topography of the plot, the construction of a drainage system may be necessary.

Propagation is normally by seed, either in nurseries or directly into the field. Farmers normally use their own seed, selected form the best tree.

Germination will take about 2-3 weeks. Air dried seed remain viable for 2-3 years.

The size is the planting hole is directly related to the container in which the plants have been growing. In general, the hole should be twice the width, height and diameter of the container.

The distance of planting depends upon the variety, soil fertility and management practices to be followed. The common practice of the farmers is to plant papaya trees as close as 3 meters apart and as wide as 5 meters apart.

It is convenient to apply well decomposed manure mixed with top soil.

Papayas are short lived perennials; they usually live for only 5 to 6 years and no more than 25. The trees grow rapidly, to a height of about 2-12 m; the wood is light and soft. The roots are also soft and easily damaged.

Controlling weeds is an integral part of papaya growing. Weeds compete with papaya plant for space, nutrients and water.

Papaya is fast growing crop which needs an abundant supply of available nutrients t all times. To insure good and high fruit yields, fertilizer to be applied at frequent intervals and at high rates.
Cultivation of papaya