Paw paws ( Asimina triloba), also known as American pawpaws, are unique and delicious fruits native to North America. Their creamy, tropical-like flavor has gained them increasing popularity, making growing your own paw paws a rewarding endeavor. While propagation through cuttings is possible, growing paw paws from seed offers a more accessible and cost-effective method. This guide will walk you through the process, from seed collection to transplanting your young paw paw trees.
Collecting Paw Paw Seeds: Timing is Key
The success of growing paw paws from seed begins with properly collected seeds. Harvesting ripe paw paws in the fall is crucial. Overripe fruit will yield seeds that are less likely to germinate.
Identifying Ripe Paw Paws:
- Color: Look for fruit that has turned a deep brownish-purple color, almost black in some varieties.
- Softness: Gently squeeze the fruit; a ripe paw paw will yield slightly to pressure.
- Aroma: A sweet, slightly fruity scent is a good indicator of ripeness.
Extracting Paw Paw Seeds:
- Open the fruit: Carefully cut open the paw paw and scoop out the pulp.
- Clean the seeds: Rinse the seeds thoroughly under cool running water to remove the surrounding pulp. Failure to remove all the pulp can lead to fungal growth and seed rot.
- Dry the seeds: Spread the clean seeds on a paper towel to air dry for a few days. This prevents mold and helps with stratification.
Stratification: Mimicking Nature's Process
Paw paw seeds require a period of cold stratification to break dormancy and encourage germination. This process mimics the natural winter conditions the seeds would experience in their native environment.
Cold Stratification Methods:
- Refrigerator Method: Place the dried seeds in a sealed container (e.g., a zip-top bag) filled with slightly moist (not wet) vermiculite or peat moss. Store the container in the refrigerator (35-40°F) for 90-120 days. Check the moisture level occasionally to prevent drying out.
- Outdoor Stratification (For colder climates): Place the seeds in a container with moist medium and bury the container outdoors in a location that experiences natural freezing and thawing cycles. This method requires monitoring to prevent drying or excessive moisture.
Sowing Paw Paw Seeds: Planting for Success
After stratification, it's time to sow your seeds. While you can sow them directly outdoors in spring, starting them indoors provides more control and higher success rates.
Indoor Sowing:
- Potting Mix: Use a well-draining seed-starting mix.
- Planting Depth: Sow the seeds about ½ inch deep.
- Moisture: Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy.
- Light: Place the pot in a bright location, but avoid direct sunlight until seedlings emerge.
- Temperature: Maintain a temperature of around 70°F (21°C).
Outdoor Sowing:
- Site Selection: Choose a location with partial shade and well-drained soil. Pawpaws prefer moist, rich soil.
- Planting Depth: Sow seeds as you would indoors.
- Protection: Protect the seedlings from harsh weather conditions, especially frost.
Transplanting Paw Paw Seedlings
Once your seedlings have developed several true leaves (not the initial cotyledons), they are ready for transplanting. This usually happens after the last frost in spring.
Transplanting Guidelines:
- Spacing: Space your young paw paw trees 10-15 feet apart. This allows sufficient room for their mature size.
- Soil Preparation: Amend the soil with organic matter (e.g., compost) to improve drainage and fertility.
- Watering: Water thoroughly after transplanting. Provide regular watering during dry periods.
- Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the trees to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Paw Paw Tree Care: Nurturing Your Young Trees
Paw paw trees are relatively low-maintenance, but providing proper care will enhance their growth and fruit production. Pay attention to these aspects:
Watering:
Water deeply and regularly, especially during dry periods, especially during the first few years. Established trees are more drought-tolerant.
Fertilizing:
Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring to encourage growth.
Pest and Disease Control:
Monitor for common pests and diseases and take appropriate measures as needed. Good air circulation helps prevent disease.
Pollination:
Paw paws are somewhat self-incompatible; it's recommended to plant at least two different cultivars (varieties) for optimal pollination and fruit set.
By carefully following these steps, you can successfully grow paw paws from seed and enjoy the unique flavor of this under-appreciated fruit in your own backyard. Remember that patience is key; paw paw trees take several years to mature and bear fruit, but the reward of homegrown paw paws is well worth the wait!
