7 Tactics To Grow Papaya From Seeds

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Want to grow your own papaya?

It’s easier than you think!

With just a few seeds and some simple steps, you can have delicious papayas right at home.

Check out these 7 tactics to get started. Ready to grow?

Let’s go!

Select the Right Papaya Seeds

Start Seeds Indoors
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First things first, pick the right seeds. Go for fresh, ripe papayas from local markets or organic stores.

Avoid supermarket papayas since they might have been treated and seeds might not be viable. Slice open the papaya, scoop out the seeds, and wash off the gooey stuff.

Only keep the black, mature seeds, as they’re your best bet for sprouting.

Dry and Store the Seeds

Select the Right Papaya Seeds
Image: © mollyshomeguide.com (Visualized and enhanced using AI technology)

Spread the seeds out on a paper towel and let them dry for a week. They need to be fully dried out before you plant them.

Store these dried seeds in a paper envelope or a small container. Make sure to keep them in a cool, dry place until you’re ready to plant.

Start Seeds Indoors

Dry and Store the Seeds
Image: © mollyshomeguide.com (Visualized and enhanced using AI technology)

Get a small pot and fill it with seed-starting soil. Make a small hole and drop in one or two seeds.

Cover lightly with soil and water gently. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.

Place the pot in a warm spot with lots of sunlight. Your seeds should start to sprout in about 2-3 weeks.

Transplant the Seedlings

Transplant the Seedlings
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Once your seedlings are about 3-4 inches tall, you can move them outside. Pick a sunny spot in your garden with well-draining soil.

Dig a hole that’s big enough for the root ball and gently place the seedling in. Fill in with soil and give it some water.

Water and Care Regularly

Papayas love water, so keep the soil consistently moist, especially while the plant is young. But be careful not to overwater; soggy soil can cause root rot.

Fertilize the plant every month with a balanced fertilizer to keep it growing healthy and strong.

Watch for Pests and Diseases

Keep an eye out for any pests like aphids or spider mites. If you spot any, treat your papaya plant with insecticidal soap.

Check for any signs of disease like yellowing leaves or fungus, and remove any affected parts immediately to prevent it from spreading.

Harvesting Your Papayas

In about 6-9 months, you’ll start to see your first papayas! Let them ripen on the tree until they’re fully yellow before you pick them.

That’s when they’ll be the sweetest and most delicious.

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