Mushroom Compost for Pawpaw Trees

Mushroom Compost

• Compost consists of decomposed organic matter, and adds nutrition and moisture to natural soil. Mushroom compost is old mushroom-growing foundation, and includes hay, straw, poultry litter, cottonseed meal, cocoa shells, gypsum, sphagnum peat moss and manure.

Site

• Choose a bright, sunny and protected location for the pawpaw tree at planting. These trees require sunshine to bloom and bear fruit, but they do best with some afternoon shading. Young seedlings burn in too much bright sun. Plant the pawpaw seedlings in sites where they get protection from harsh winds.

Mixing Soil

• The Purdue University Cooperative Extension Service notes that pawpaws thrive in dark, crumbly soil with a slightly acidic pH. Create deep, quick-draining soil with digging and organic amendments at planting. Dig into the top 12 inches of soil to loosen it, and mix in 5 to 6 inches of mushroom compost. The compost provides nutrition and moisture retention for long-term growing, and keeps the soil loose and quick-draining.

Ongoing Care

• The Kentucky State University Cooperative Extension Program notes that pawpaw trees require consistent watering, especially in their first two years, and suggests at least 32 inches of water every year. Water new pawpaw seedlings with 1 inch of water per week to maintain soil moisture. Mix new mushroom compost into the soil around the pawpaw tree every spring to maintain soil quality and nutrition.