Will a Freeze Kill Papaya Fruit?

Papaya Climate

• Papayas grow best in temperatures between 70 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit, and roots thrive in soil temperatures 60 F and above. Air temperatures that are too warm or too cool can affect plant flowering. Temperatures above 90 F cause flowers to drop, while temperatures 59 F or below can reduce flowering, cause misshapen fruit and kill flowers and fruit. Other unfavorable weather conditions, including lack of rainfall, can slow plant growth and reduce or prevent fruit production.

Cold Temperatures

• Newly-planted papaya growing in warmer regions begin fruiting sooner and continue to bear all winter, while newly-planted papaya grown in cooler climates do not fruit until the second year. Both young and mature trees are vulnerable to freezing temperatures and are damaged or killed when temperatures dip to 31 F or below. While the fruit of papayas, if protected, can survive a short cold snap at or below freezing, they suffer damage during prolonged freezes.

Frost

• Papaya plants can live through a frost; however, the leaves and crown of the plant are frost tender, and prolonged temperatures at 33 to 34 F can kill foliage. The papaya plant stem is also susceptible to frost and damage. Papaya plants, however, that have a healthy root system can rebound and grow new branches with flowers and fruit. It is crucial that the root system be kept dry during cold spells. Reduced irrigation can prevent root rot that often occurs in cold, wet soil.

Protecting Papayas

• You can protect papaya plants from a cold snap. Some methods include constructing a frame around a papaya plant, and draping blankets or plastic sheeting over the frame, from top to bottom, during short periods of frost. For longer periods of cold, you can drive a stake into the ground under the frost cover and mount a 25-watt electric light on it to provide heat, but make sure the light has a safety shield, and carefully follow directions for outdoor safety. Never use electric lights during wet weather. Alternatively, you can take a cue from commercial growers and use a strong fan aimed at the trees' leaves keeps air circulating to reduce frost damage. Use only outdoor electrical cords.