Soak the seed for 3 to 5 days, change the water daily and sow one seed per hole at a depth size of two seeds but do not sow too deep.
Grow the seedlings in a net house with fine net for protection against sucking insects and cover with plastic in case of heavy rain.
Transfer the seedlings in a polythene bag 14 days after sowing. Compress after transfer and adjust spacing of 10 by 10 cm. Seedlings are ready to transplant 45 days after sowing.
Maintain constant moisture throughout the day and avoid watering during the evening.
Land Preparation & Transplantation
Well cultivated soil and raised beds helps to ensure strong root and plant growth also provide good drainage to prevent waterlogging.
Prepare planting holes of 10-15 cm per plant that is not too deep and not too shallow and transplant late in the afternoon.
Plant the papaya 2.5-3 m per row by 3m per plant and water immediately after transplanting.
Assuring High Yield
The recommended fertilizer amount is based on plant population. Mix and spray carefully, wear protective clothing and wash hands well afterwards and spray downwind to avoid drift.
Good soil cultivation, healthy seedlings, correct spacing, maintaining good soil moisture, avoiding water logging and correct use of fertilizer and pesticides assures high yields.
Know the insect pests and diseases attacking papaya. Use insect traps to reduce fruit fly population, remove infected plant or fruits and control sucking insects to prevent spread of virus.
Harvesting Practice
Fruits are ready to harvest around 6-7 months after transplanting. Harvesting can be done between 9 am to 3 pm to minimize latex flow that may cause injury on the skin of the fruit.
