08/05/2022
Growing Pawpaws
From Seed
Pawpaw seeds need to undergo a 3 month stratification period before they germinate. This can be done by placing the seeds in container in the refrigerator. To prevent mold it is suggested that seeds be washed in a hydrogen peroxide solution and then stored with damp peat moss. Seeds should NEVER be allowed to dry out.
How to take care of saplings
1. Plant in a place with lots of light, but during the first 2 years provide shade from 10-3 from June to August.
2. Pick a spot where the soil drains well. There should be no standing water after a downpour.
3. Pawpaws have large leaves and like relatively sheltered spots that limit high winds.
4. Space the trees 8-10 feet apart if you want to have a row. If you plant them more than 30 feet apart it might hinder cross pollination.
5. Pawpaws love loamy soil and soil rich in organic material. If your soil is dense and clay like, be sure to dig down 2 feet and back fill with compost or some other easy to pe*****te organic matter.
6. When saplings are young be sure to water well especially during periods of drought.
7. Rabbits have been known to chew and damage saplings so preventative measures might need to be taken.
8. There is no need for chemical fertilizers but adding compost and compost tea will help the pawpaw thrive.
DO NOT let the sapling get full middle day sun the first two years or it will get burned and die.
DO NOT plant in a swampy, muddy area or it will drown.
DO NOT let the sapling dry out. Adding mulch will help with moisture retention in the soil.
Keep in mind that Pawpaw will be among the last trees to get their leaves in the spring so don’t make the mistake of thinking it is dead.
