How to Start Papaya Seeds

Papaya trees are actually tall herbs, according to agriculturists with Purdue University. Native to southern Mexico and Central America, the papaya requires tropical or subtropical climates to grow and bear fruit. Frost or prolonged exposure to cold, moist soil will kill the tree. A papaya fruit, when ripe, has yellow skin, with pink, orange or yellow flesh. The large, black seeds are easily scooped out with a spoon. Wash them, dry them and plant them right away as papaya seeds don't store well.

Sterile potting mix
Vermiculite
Large planting pot, at least 3 gallons
Fungicide powder
Bag

Instructions

- 1
  Combine sterile potting mix with vermiculite in a 1-1 ratio. Pour it into a large planting pot. Papaya seedlings are intolerant of root disturbance, so starting in a small pot and transplanting into a large one later may kill the seedling. Moisten the planting medium until it is thoroughly wet and set the pot aside to drain.
- 2
  Place 1/8 cup fungicide powder in a bag and drop the seeds in. Secure the top of the bag and shake it gently to dust the seeds with the powder.
- 3
  Plant the papaya seeds 1 inch deep and cover with a 1/8-inch layer of sand.
- 4
  Place the pot on a heat mat, set to 80 degrees Fahrenheit, in a bright area, out of direct sunlight. Keep the soil slightly moist, and the papaya seeds should germinate within two to five weeks.

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