It’s like embracing on an exciting aventure to bring the tropical taste of fruit into your own backyard. Imagine plucking the ripe fruit, which tastes like a custard, with flavors of mango, banana and melon. Intrigued? Discover paw paw tree planting at home.
The Allure of The Paw Paw Tree
The native fruit of north america, the paw paw tree is scientifically called triloba. It has a special place among the fruit. It’s and underrated fruit for home gardeners, despite its toxic flavor. The tree has large, lush foliage, and produces the largest edible fruits indigenous to the united states. The paw paw is a delicious addition to your garden with its creamy texture and tropical flavor.
How to Choose the Best Place for Paw Paw Tree Planting
During Paw Paw tree planting, it is important to choose the right location. They thrive in fertile, well-drained soil that is slightly acidic or neutral. Although they tolerate partial shade exposure, full sun exposure is best for optimal fruit production. Young paw paw seeds can be sensitive to direct sunlight and need shade in their early stages of growth. You can ensure that your tree will grow healthy if you select a location that meets the above requirements.
Soil Preparation
It is important to properly prepare the soil before Paw Paw tree planting. Test the pH of your soil to make sure it is between 5.5 and 7. Compost can be added to the soil if adjustments are required. This will improve drainage and fertility. The taproots of paw paw trees are deep, so loosening soil at a depth between 12 and 18 inches will allow the roots to penetrate and establish.
Paw Paw Tree Planting
After the site has been prepared, you can begin paw paw tree planting. Dig a hole that is twice as large and as deep as the roots. Place the tree gently in the hole and ensure that the top of its root ball is at the same level as the soil surrounding it. Backfill the hole with the soil excavated, and firm it gently to remove air pockets. After paw paw tree planting, water the tree to moisten the soil and settle it.
Caring for Your Paw Paw Tree
For successful paw paw tree planting and fruit production, proper care is essential. Watering regularly is important, especially in the first few seasons, to keep soil moist. Mulching helps regulate the temperature and retain moisture in the soil. Early spring, use a balanced fertiliser to promote healthy growth. Pruning should be minimal, but it can be done if you want to remove any dead or crossed branches and promote better air circulation.
Fruit and Pollination Set
Paw paw trees require a unique method of pollination. The trees produce beautiful flowers, but they are not self pollinating. They require cross-pollination with another genetically different tree. By planting at least two paw paw trees in close proximity, you increase the likelihood of fruit set and successful pollination. Attracting natural pollinators such as flies or beetles will also increase fruit production. 
Harvesting Fruit
When it comes time to harvest the paw paw fruits, anticipation reaches its peak. The paw paw fruit ripens between late summer to early fall. When ripe, they emit a sweet smell and slightly yield to gentle pressure. Ripe fruits are only good for a few days, so it is important to harvest them as soon as possible. You can eat them straight from the tree or use them in a variety of culinary creations such as smoothies, desserts and preserves.
Pest and Disease Management
Although paw paws are generally pest resistant, they may face some challenges. The paw-paw peduncle borer is a pest that has been known to affect the health of trees. By maintaining the health of trees and monitoring them regularly, you can minimize potential problems. It is also important to ensure good air circulation, and avoid overhead watering.
The Paw Paw Experience
It’s more than adding a fruit tree to your garden. It’s an experience in horticulture. The journey from selecting the ideal spot to enjoying the first homegrown bite of fruit is rewarding. You can get the exotic taste of paw paw and help revive this native treasure by understanding the needs of the tree and catering to them.
FAQs
Is it possible to grow a paw-paw tree in a pot?
You can grow pawpaws in containers, especially during the early stages of paw paw tree planting. Due to their deep taproot, they can outgrow the containers. They prefer to be transplanted in the ground.
How much time does it take a paw-paw tree to produce fruit?
When grown from seeds, it takes a paw-paw tree 4-8 years to bear fruit. Grafted varieties can bear fruit much sooner. Often within 3 to 4 year under proper care.
Can deer browse on paw-paw trees?
Paw trees are less likely to get browsed than other fruit trees because they have a compound that is naturally found in their leaves and branches.
Can paw paws be propagated from cuttings?
It is difficult and usually unsuccessful paw paw tree planting from cuttings. Most commonly, they are propagated by seeds or grafting.
When is the best season for Paw Paw tree planting?
Spring is ideal time for paw paw tree planting, after the last frost. The tree can then establish its roots during the growing period.
Conclusion
Paw paw tree planting will bring the exotic flavor of this fruit to your own backyard. You can enjoy homegrown paw paw fruit by selecting the best location, preparing soil and taking proper care. This rewarding experience will not only enhance your garden, but also give you a connection to North America’s horticultural history.
