PAW PAW Scarlet Princess (Papaya)

Vigorous plant with 1 kg fruits with flesh that is thick, aromatic and red. Plants begin to bear fruit at 60-80 cm in height.

Prefers a humus-rich moist well-drained soil in a protected warm position. Drought and frost resistant.

Grow notes:

Although seed can be sown most of the year in many parts of Australia seed is generally best sown in spring or autumn, avoid the coldest and hottest months of the year. The optimum germination temperature for germination is around 18-22°C.

Paw Paw seed germinates best after a period of cold stratification in the refrigerator for 6-8 weeks. Alternatively wintering in the garden in cold climates will assist 

1. Soak in water overnight.
2. Sow seed the depth of the seed width.
3. Water with fine mist spray to avoid disturbance of the seed.
4. Ensure the mix is moist but not waterlogged.
5. Place the container in a plastic bag.
6. Place the bagged container in the refrigerator for 6-8 weeks.
7. Germination generally occurs in 14-28 days when moved to warmer temperatures after the period of cold treatment.

General note: Seeds of many natives are dormant and require specific conditions or pre-treatment for germination.
Do not be too hasty to discard seed that does not germinate, seeds will often lay dormant until the conditions are similar to their natural requirements for germination to occur. Containers put to one side will often surprise long after they were discarded.