It would take you by surprise how much it takes to actually grow papayas. In this edition of Farmer’s Inside Track, Gerrit Nieuwoudt, the head of research and development at Neofresh, shares some of the intricate details for a farmer who is interested in growing the fruit.
In South Africa, the papaya industry is small but profitable.
According to Niewoudt, papayas are very delicate fruits. They can only grow in certain areas in South Africa and cannot stand frost. Therefore, it is important to learn as much as you can about the intricacies of growing the fruit.
“Papaya production is more in the subtropical areas of South Africa. It is a crop that needs some heat, and it can’t stand frost; any temperatures below 13 degrees would impede their growth,” he says.
But there’s more, soil is also important the papaya prefers soil along a pH level of 6-7. Organic material is also preferred and papaya is a heavy feeder.
Papayas prefer a well-range loamy soil about 50cm deep, with a pH level of 6-7, Niewoudt says.
“It is important the soil has the right amount of potassium and magnesium… Be aware for too little baron as well this can result in deformations of fruit where no flowering will take place,” he explains.
During the episode, Nieuwoudt also discusses:
- The preparation of the soil and growing the best papayas;
- The type of nutrients needed within the soil to get the best out of the soil;
- How long production takes and advice on irrigation; and
- Pests and diseases.
Want to know more? Listen to the full episode of Farmer’s Inside Track.
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