You can grow dwarf papaya from seed by extracting and drying the seeds, then planting them in a seed-starting mix and providing ample sunlight, eventually moving the plant indoors when temperatures drop. Here's a more detailed breakdown:
1. Seed Extraction and Preparation:
- Harvesting Seeds: Scoop the seeds out of a ripe dwarf papaya fruit.
- Cleaning: Rinse the seeds to remove any pulp.
- Drying: Spread the seeds on a paper towel in a single layer.
- Drying Time: Allow the seeds to dry for about a week in a well-ventilated area. This prevents mold growth.
- Husk Removal (Optional): After drying, you can gently rub the seeds to remove the outer husk. This step isn't always necessary but can potentially improve germination.
- Storage (If Not Planting Immediately): Store the dried seeds in a cool, dry place.
2. Planting:
- Seed Starting Mix: Use a well-draining seed starting mix or potting mix.
- Planting Depth: Plant the seeds about 1/2 inch deep.
- Watering: Water gently but thoroughly after planting. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
- Warmth: Papaya seeds germinate best in warm conditions (ideally 70-85°F or 21-29°C). You can use a heat mat to provide bottom heat.
3. Germination and Seedling Care:
- Germination Time: Expect germination to occur within 2-3 weeks, although it can sometimes take longer.
- Light: Once seedlings emerge, provide them with plenty of bright, indirect sunlight.
- Watering: Water regularly, allowing the soil surface to dry slightly between waterings.
- Fertilizing: Once the seedlings have a few sets of true leaves, you can start fertilizing with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength.
4. Transplanting (If Needed):
- When to Transplant: Transplant the seedlings into larger pots when they are large enough to handle, typically when they have several sets of true leaves and are a few inches tall.
- Pot Size: Choose pots that are at least 6 inches in diameter.
5. Ongoing Care:
- Sunlight: Papayas need plenty of sunlight (at least 6-8 hours per day).
- Watering: Water regularly, especially during hot weather. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
- Fertilizing: Fertilize regularly with a balanced fertilizer, following the instructions on the fertilizer package.
- Temperature: Papayas are sensitive to cold temperatures. Move your papaya indoors when nighttime temperatures start dropping to the low 50s Fahrenheit (around 10°C).
- Pollination: Papayas can be self-pollinating or require cross-pollination, depending on the variety. Dwarf varieties are often self-pollinating. If you're unsure, you can hand-pollinate the flowers by transferring pollen from one flower to another using a small brush.
