Papaya — Growing reference
| Scientific name | Carica papaya |
|---|---|
| Seed germination (days) | 10–21 |
| Soil temperature for germination (°C) | 21.1–29.4 |
| First harvest or flowering (days) | 180–365 |
| Measured from | Transplant |
| Plant spacing (cm) | 182.9–365.8 |
| Mature height (cm) | 304.8–914.4 |
| Mature spread (cm) | 182.9–304.8 |
| USDA hardiness zones | 10–11 |
| Light | Full sun |
| Water | High |
| Sowing method | Transplant |
Growing directions
Papaya is one of the fastest-bearing fruit plants — grafted or transplanted seedlings can fruit within 6–12 months of planting. It is highly sensitive to frost, waterlogged soil, and root disturbance; plant in well-raised, excellently drained beds and never let roots sit in water even briefly. Most commercial papaya is hermaphroditic (self-fertile), allowing a single tree to produce fruit; dioecious types require a male plant within 20 feet. Cut the growing tip back at 3–4 ft to encourage a compact, easily harvested form. Harvest when at least one-quarter of the skin has turned yellow; ripen fully at room temperature and refrigerate only after fully ripe.
Source and local conditions
Typical planning ranges from OpenPlantDB (CC0). Cultivar, climate, season and growing method can change these values. Confirm the seed label and local guidance before planting.
Source & verification
OpenPlantDB · CC0