Papaya is an ideal summer crop, but it can be cultivated throughout the year. It can be grown in both open fields and small household areas. There are several papaya varieties available in the country, including Bluestem, Kasimpuri, Jessori, Rachi, Noun Yu, Honey Dew, Small papaya, Shahi papaya, and Shankara caste.
Loam and sandy loam soils are suitable for papaya cultivation, but the soil quality may vary by region.
Aisle Selection
Aisle length should be 22 meters, with a width of 45 cm. Wide aisles are preferable for papaya cultivation.
Planting Distance
There should be a distance of 2 meters between female plants.
Planting Time
April is the best time for planting papaya, but it can also be done in September and October.
Weed Management
Clear weeds as soon as they appear in the papaya field.
Irrigation
In winter, irrigation should be done every 10-12 days, and in summer, every 6-7 days.
Male Plants and Tree Thinning
Once the plants start to flower (usually within 2 months of planting), remove all but one male plant for every 10-15 female plants. For each mother plant, one female papaya plant should be placed at a higher level.
Pole Placement
Strong poles should be buried in the ground and tied to the tree trunk to support the tree and its fruits, especially during storms.
Diseases
Stem Rot:
This disease causes plants to rot before germination, with brown water-soaked spots forming at the base of the plant. The tree eventually falls, dies, and breaks easily in the wind.
Mosaic Disease:
Symptoms include green and yellow spots on the leaves, sometimes leading to complete curling of the leaves.
Leaf Curling Disease:
This disease causes the leaves to curl, with relatively thick veins. Plants affected by this disease are smaller in size and yield less.
Fertilizer Application
Apply 290-310 grams of cow dung, 30-36 grams of urea fertilizer, 10-15 grams of TSP, 25-35 grams of MP, and 10-15 grams of gypsum per plant. Dung, gypsum, and TSP should be applied during bed preparation, while urea and potash fertilizers should be applied in five installments starting after four-five months.
Irrigation and Drainage
Irrigate if the soil is dry and ensure proper drainage if there is excess water.
Intermediate Care
Weed the area as needed, which typically requires two to three times, to boost papaya production. For tall saplings, leave 30 cm and trim the leaves evenly for better yield.
Harvesting
Papaya can be harvested as a vegetable 2-3 months after fruiting, approximately 3 months after flowering. The crop can be harvested 15-16 months after planting and can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days. Following improved seed varieties and modern cultivation methods, and adhering to proper guidelines, can significantly improve papaya yields.
