![]() More effective irrigation and rainfall use.Improved soil drainage and less runoff.Proper soil preparation will ensure optimal conditions for root growth that can last the lifespan of the plant. If soil exchangeable aluminum (Al) is not more than 30ppm, a soil with a pH (water) of 5,5 or higher may be used. At a pH (water) value lower or higher than the 5,5 to 7,2 range, plants may suffer from trace element, phosphate or potassium deficiencies. Soil pH (water): Pawpaw grow best in soil with a pH (water) value of 6 to 6,5. Soil structure: The ideal soil has a loose, brittle, crumbly structure. Sandy soil (less than 10% clay) normally has a very low water-holding capacity and nutrient status. A mulch or application of organic material can greatly increase the potential of such a soil. Soil with a clay content of up to 50% is also suitable. In very sandy soil, temporary over-saturation might occur when soil compaction or impermeable layers limit drainage. Texture: The ideal soil for pawpaw cultivation under irrigation is a sandy loam or loam soil with a clay content of 15% to 30%. However, if irrigation is well-planned and managed, there should be no problem on soil with an unimpeded depth of 750mm, if drainage is good. Soil depth: Under irrigation, pawpaw grows best in soil with an unimpeded depth of more than 1m. Pawpaw grow best on a slight slope, which enables the runoff or drainage of excess water and prevents waterlogging. Impermeable layers will hamper growth and production and can lead to root diseases. Pawpaw roots will die off in over- saturated and poorly drained soil. Pawpaw grow and produce well on a wide variety of soil types. Under favorable conditions, the root system can penetrate to a depth of 2m, but most of the roots responsible for nutrient uptake are found in the top 500mm.Ĭorrect irrigation is crucial. The optimal temperature range for pawpaw in Kenya is between 25☌ and 28☌, and production normally peaks between August and October. The hermaphrodite can self-pollinate as its flowers contain both male stamens and female ovaries. The female produces small, inedible fruits unless pollinated. The male produces only pollen, never fruit. We grow them from seed for increased hardiness compared to grafted stock.The plants grow in three sexes: male, female and hermaphrodite. Pawpaws have a very slow growth habit and grow naturally as an under story tree, usually not reaching over 35 feet. As it oxidises fairly quickly once cut open, it is best eaten fresh once fully ripe or made into sauces, baked goods, ice cream, puddings, and curds. Why We Grow It: The Pawpaw produces very unique fruit that has a distinct tropical banana/mango flavour and custard-like texture. Although popular among locals and with foragers, pawpaws have failed to achieve any kind of commercial success due to their poor keeping ability and oft difficult pollination. These oddly tropical fruits have been cultivated by indigenous peoples and European colonizers alike, it is rumoured chilled pawpaw was George Washington's favourite dessert and Thomas Jefferson planted some at Monticello. History: Native to southern Ontario where it is considered a vulnerable species and the central United States, it is believed the range of these trees has shrunk with the extinction of megafauna that likely dispersed the seeds. Misc: assorted trees and bushes to enrich your landscape (nitrogen fixers/ native species +) Perennial Vegetables & Ground Cover Plants
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