Pawpaw Farming In Kenya, How To Make Juicy Money

Pawpaw Farming, also known as papaya, is a popular tropical fruit that is cultivated in Kenya for both local consumption and export. The fruit is rich in nutrients such as vitamin C, potassium, and fiber, making it a valuable addition to a healthy diet. In this article, we will explore the pawpaw farming industry in Kenya, including its history, cultivation practices, challenges, growing conditions, planting, profitability, fertilizer recommendations, math’s, and opportunities.

History of Pawpaw Farming in Kenya

Pawpaw farming was introduced in Kenya in the early 1900s, during the colonial era. The first pawpaw plants were brought into the country by British colonizers, who recognized the fruit’s potential as a cash crop. Initially, pawpaw was grown in the coastal regions of Kenya, but its cultivation later spread to other parts of the country.

Today, pawpaw farming is a major economic activity in Kenya, with farmers producing the fruit for local consumption and export to markets in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. The fruit is grown on both large-scale and small-scale farms, with most of the small-scale farms located in the rural areas.

Cultivation Practices of Pawpaw Farming In Kenya

Pawpaw is a fast-growing crop that requires warm temperatures, plenty of sunshine, and well-drained soil. The fruit can be grown from seeds or cuttings, with the latter being the preferred method for commercial farming. Pawpaw plants take about 8-10 months to mature, and the fruit is harvested when it is fully ripe.

To cultivate pawpaw, farmers in Kenya prepare the land by clearing it of weeds and debris. They then dig holes and apply organic manure or compost to the soil before planting the seedlings. The plants are spaced about 3-4 meters apart to allow for maximum growth and fruit production.

Pawpaw plants require regular watering, especially during the dry season, to ensure optimal growth and fruit development. Farmers also need to protect the plants from pests and diseases, which can reduce yields and affect fruit quality. Common pests and diseases that affect pawpaw plants in Kenya include the papaya fruit fly, anthracnose, and powdery mildew.

Harvesting and Post-Harvest Handling

Pawpaw fruit is harvested when it is fully ripe, which is indicated by the fruit’s yellow or orange color. The fruit is then washed and sorted according to size and quality before being packed for transportation to the market.

To extend the shelf life of the fruit, farmers in Kenya may use different post-harvest handling techniques, such as wrapping the fruit in newspaper or storing it in a cool, dry place. Some farmers may also use a wax coating on the fruit to prevent moisture loss and maintain its freshness.

Challenges and Opportunities on Pawpaw Farming In Kenya

Despite its potential as a cash crop, pawpaw farming in Kenya faces several challenges, including poor infrastructure, inadequate access to markets, and limited technical expertise among farmers. Additionally, the industry has been affected by pests and diseases, such as the papaya fruit fly, which can cause significant losses to farmers.

However, there are also several opportunities for pawpaw farming in Kenya. For example, the demand for pawpaw in local and international markets is increasing due to the fruit’s nutritional value and health benefits. The Kenyan government has also implemented several initiatives to support the pawpaw farming industry, such as providing technical assistance and improving access to markets.

Pawpaw farming is an important economic activity in Kenya, providing a source of income for both small-scale and large-scale farmers. The industry faces several challenges, including pests and diseases, limited technical expertise, and inadequate access to markets. However, there are also several opportunities for pawpaw farming in Kenya, including increasing demand for the fruit and government support for the industry.

To ensure the continued growth and success of pawpaw farming in Kenya, it is essential for farmers to adopt best practices for cultivation, pest and disease management, and post-harvest handling.

Moreover, farmers can take advantage of new technologies and innovations in agriculture to improve their yields and increase profitability. For example, some farmers are using hydroponics, a method of growing plants without soil, to grow pawpaw plants in controlled environments. This allows farmers to optimize growing conditions, reduce water usage, and increase yields.

Another innovation that is gaining popularity among pawpaw farmers in Kenya is the use of biological pest control methods. This involves using natural predators or parasites to control pest populations, rather than chemical pesticides. Not only is this more environmentally friendly, but it can also be more cost-effective for farmers.

Pawpaw farming in Kenya has come a long way since its introduction in the early 1900s. Despite the challenges that the industry faces, there are numerous opportunities for growth and success. By adopting best practices, taking advantage of new technologies and innovations, and working together to overcome challenges, pawpaw farmers in Kenya can continue to thrive and contribute to the country’s economy.

Furthermore, the export market for pawpaw presents a significant opportunity for Kenyan farmers to earn foreign exchange and improve their livelihoods. The European Union (EU) is the largest importer of Kenyan pawpaw, with Germany, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom being the main markets. In recent years, there has been a growing demand for organic pawpaw in these markets, providing an opportunity for Kenyan farmers to diversify their products and increase their earnings.

To tap into the export market, farmers need to adhere to international quality and safety standards, such as the GlobalGAP certification. This requires farmers to implement good agricultural practices, such as proper use of agrochemicals, proper hygiene and sanitation, and proper record-keeping. By meeting these standards, farmers can access premium markets and command higher prices for their produce.

In addition to exports, there is also a growing market for processed pawpaw products, such as jams, juices, and dried pawpaw. These value-added products can provide additional income streams for farmers and contribute to the growth of the local food processing industry.

In conclusion, pawpaw farming in Kenya has the potential to be a lucrative venture for farmers, both in the local and export markets. With the right practices, technologies, and innovations, Kenyan farmers can overcome the challenges and seize the opportunities presented by the pawpaw industry. As the demand for healthy and nutritious food increases globally, pawpaw farmers in Kenya are well-positioned to meet this demand and contribute to the country’s economic growth.

Pawpaw Varieties Grown In Kenya

Pawpaw, also known as papaya, is a popular fruit in Kenya, with numerous varieties grown across the country. Each variety has its unique characteristics in terms of taste, texture, and nutritional value. Herein we will explore ten of the best pawpaw varieties in Kenya and their characteristics.

1. Solo Sunrise: Solo Sunrise is a high-yielding pawpaw variety that is resistant to diseases and pests. The fruit has a sweet flavor, juicy texture, and is high in Vitamin C. It is a popular variety among farmers due to its ability to mature early, within 7-9 months after planting.
2. Red Lady: Red Lady is a pawpaw variety that is known for its high productivity, producing up to 80 fruits per tree per year. The fruit has a sweet and juicy taste, with a reddish-orange flesh. It is rich in Vitamin A and is a good source of dietary fiber.
3. Honey Gold: Honey Gold is a variety that is known for its aromatic and sweet flavor. The fruit has a yellow flesh, and its skin is thin and easy to peel. It is high in Vitamin C and is an excellent source of antioxidants.
4. Tainung: Tainung is a hybrid pawpaw variety that is resistant to pests and diseases. The fruit has a sweet and juicy taste, with a red flesh. It is high in Vitamin A and is a good source of dietary fiber.
5. Kapoho: Kapoho is a pawpaw variety that is known for its excellent flavor and high sugar content. The fruit has a deep orange flesh and a thin skin that is easy to peel. It is a good source of Vitamin C and is rich in antioxidants.
6. Waimanalo: Waimanalo is a pawpaw variety that is known for its high productivity, producing up to 150 fruits per tree per year. The fruit has a sweet and juicy taste, with a red flesh. It is high in Vitamin C and is a good source of dietary fiber.
7. Sunrise: Sunrise is a pawpaw variety that is resistant to diseases and pests. The fruit has a sweet flavor, juicy texture, and is high in Vitamin C. It is a popular variety among farmers due to its ability to mature early, within 7-9 months after planting.
8. Eksotika: Eksotika is a pawpaw variety that is known for its excellent flavor and high sugar content. The fruit has a yellow flesh and a thin skin that is easy to peel. It is a good source of Vitamin C and is rich in antioxidants.
9. KAU1: KAU1 is a pawpaw variety that is resistant to pests and diseases. The fruit has a sweet and juicy taste, with a red flesh. It is high in Vitamin A and is a good source of dietary fiber.
10. Pococí: Pococí is a pawpaw variety that is known for its excellent flavor and high sugar content. The fruit has a deep orange flesh and a thin skin that is easy to peel. It is a good source of Vitamin C and is rich in antioxidants.

There are numerous pawpaw varieties grown in Kenya, each with its unique characteristics. The ten varieties listed above are among the best in terms of taste, yield, and nutritional value. Farmers can select the appropriate variety depending on their preferences, location, and market demand, to ensure maximum yields and profitability.

Best Pawpaw Growing Regions In Kenya

Pawpaw farming in Kenya is widespread, with the fruit being grown in almost all parts of the country. However, some regions are more favorable for pawpaw farming than others due to their climatic conditions, soil type, and access to water. Here, we will explore some of the best regions for pawpaw farming in Kenya.

1. Coastal Region: The coastal region, which includes counties such as Mombasa, Kilifi, and Kwale, is an ideal region for pawpaw farming due to its warm and humid climate. The region receives abundant rainfall, with a well-distributed pattern throughout the year, making it suitable for pawpaw production throughout the year. The region’s sandy soils are also ideal for pawpaw farming as they are well-draining, which prevents waterlogging, a common problem in other regions.
2. Eastern Region: The Eastern region, which includes counties such as Machakos, Kitui, and Makueni, is an excellent region for pawpaw farming due to its arid and semi-arid climate. The region’s sandy loam soils are well-draining, which allows for excellent root development and high yields. Additionally, the region’s low humidity levels minimize the incidence of fungal diseases, which are prevalent in other regions.
3. Rift Valley Region: The Rift Valley region, which includes counties such as Nakuru, Baringo, and Laikipia, is an excellent region for pawpaw farming due to its moderate climate and fertile soils. The region’s high altitude and cool temperatures are favorable for pawpaw production, as they slow down the fruit’s ripening process, resulting in higher quality and longer shelf life. The region’s fertile soils are also ideal for pawpaw farming, providing the necessary nutrients for healthy plant growth and high yields.
4. Western Region: The Western region, which includes counties such as Kakamega, Vihiga, and Bungoma, is an excellent region for pawpaw farming due to its moderate climate and fertile soils. The region’s high rainfall levels are favorable for pawpaw production, as they provide the necessary moisture for healthy plant growth and high yields. Additionally, the region’s fertile soils are ideal for pawpaw farming, providing the necessary nutrients for healthy plant growth and high yields.

Pawpaw farming is feasible in almost all parts of Kenya, but some regions are more favorable than others due to their climatic conditions and soil type. Farmers should consider the region’s climate, rainfall patterns, soil type, and access to water when selecting a suitable location for pawpaw farming to maximize yields and profitability.

Suitable Conditions For Pawpaw Farming In Kenya

Pawpaw farming is one of the most profitable agribusiness ventures in Kenya due to the high demand for the fruit both locally and internationally. However, pawpaw farming requires specific conditions for the plants to thrive and produce high yields. Below are the suitable conditions for pawpaw farming in Kenya:

1. Climate: Pawpaw farming requires a warm and humid climate with temperatures ranging from 21°C to 33°C. The plants grow best in areas with an average annual rainfall of between 1000mm to 1500mm. Areas with long dry spells or high altitude regions are not suitable for pawpaw farming.
2. Soil: Pawpaw plants grow best in deep, well-drained, and fertile soils with a pH range of 6.0 to 6.5. The soil should be rich in organic matter and have good water retention capacity. The ideal soil type for pawpaw farming is sandy loam, which provides good drainage and aeration for the roots.
3. Altitude: Pawpaw farming is best suited for low to mid-altitude regions, with an altitude of between 0 to 1500 meters above sea level. High altitude regions are not suitable for pawpaw farming due to the low temperatures, which affect plant growth and yield.
4. Sunlight: Pawpaw plants require plenty of sunlight for optimum growth and development. The plants should be planted in areas with full sun exposure, away from shading trees or buildings.
5. Pest and Disease Control: Pawpaw plants are susceptible to various pests and diseases that can affect plant growth and yield. Therefore, farmers should adopt appropriate pest and disease control measures to ensure healthy plant growth and high yields.
6. Irrigation: Pawpaw plants require regular watering, especially during the dry season, to ensure optimum growth and yield. Irrigation should be done once or twice a week, depending on the soil moisture level.
7. Variety selection: The choice of pawpaw variety is critical to the success of pawpaw farming in Kenya. Farmers should choose high-yielding, disease-resistant varieties that are well adapted to their agro-ecological zone.
8. Spacing and plant population: The spacing and plant population for pawpaw farming in Kenya can vary depending on the cultivar being grown, the soil type, climate, and other factors. However, here are some general recommendations:
   • Spacing: The recommended spacing for pawpaw plants is about 2.5 to 3 meters between plants and 3 to 3.5 meters between rows. This translates to about 1,000 to 1,500 plants per acre.
   • Plant population: The recommended plant population of pawpaw is about 1,000 to 1,500 plants per acre, which corresponds to a spacing of 2.5 to 3 meters between plants and 3 to 3.5 meters between rows.

Pawpaw farming in Kenya requires specific conditions such as warm and humid climate, deep, well-drained, and fertile soils, full sun exposure, low to mid-altitude regions, pest and disease control measures, regular irrigation, and appropriate variety selection. Farmers should ensure that they provide the right conditions for pawpaw plants to thrive and produce high yields.

Step By Step On How To Plant Pawpaw The Right Way

Planting pawpaw in Kenya requires careful preparation of the land, selection of the right planting materials, and appropriate planting techniques. Below are the steps for planting pawpaw in Kenya:

1. Land preparation: The first step in planting pawpaw is to prepare the land. The land should be cleared of any weeds, rocks, and debris. The soil should be tilled to a depth of about 30cm and be made into raised beds or mounds to improve drainage.
2. Selection of planting materials: The next step is to select the right planting materials. Farmers should choose high-quality seedlings from reputable nurseries or select healthy seeds from mature pawpaw fruits. Seedlings or seeds should be free from pests and diseases.
3. Planting holes: Pawpaw should be planted in holes that are at least 60cm wide and 60cm deep. The holes should be dug about a month before planting and filled with a mixture of topsoil, compost, and manure.
4. Planting: The seedlings or seeds should be planted in the middle of the holes and covered with soil. If using seedlings, the top of the root ball should be level with the soil surface. If using seeds, they should be planted about 2.5cm deep.
5. Mulching: After planting, the pawpaw plants should be mulched with organic materials such as leaves, grass, or straw. Mulching helps to retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and improve soil fertility.
6. Irrigation: Pawpaw plants require regular watering, especially during the dry season. Irrigation should be done once or twice a week, depending on the soil moisture level. Overwatering should be avoided as it can lead to root rot.
7. Fertilizer application: Pawpaw plants require regular fertilization to ensure healthy growth and high yields. Fertilizer application should be done about a month after planting and repeated every three months. The recommended fertilizers are organic manure, compost, and balanced NPK fertilizers.
8. Pruning: Pawpaw plants should be pruned regularly to remove dead and diseased leaves, promote air circulation, and improve fruit quality. Pruning should be done in the morning or late afternoon to avoid sunburn.
9. Pest and disease control: Pawpaw plants are susceptible to various pests and diseases that can affect plant growth and yield. Farmers should adopt appropriate pest and disease control measures to ensure healthy plant growth and high yields.

Planting pawpaw in Kenya requires careful land preparation, selection of the right planting materials, appropriate planting techniques, mulching, regular irrigation, fertilizer application, pruning, and pest and disease control measures. By following these steps, farmers can ensure healthy pawpaw growth and high yields.

Pawpaw Farming Production Per Acre In Kenya

The average pawpaw production per acre in Kenya depends on several factors, including the variety grown, soil type, weather conditions, and farming practices. Pawpaw is a high-value fruit crop in Kenya, and with proper management, farmers can achieve high yields per acre.

On average, a well-managed pawpaw plantation in Kenya can produce between 25 to 60 tons per acre per year. However, some farmers have reported yields of up to 80 tons per acre, while others have experienced much lower yields.

The pawpaw varieties grown in Kenya, such as Solo Sunrise, Red royale, Honey gold, and others, have different yield potential. For example, the Solo Sunrise variety has a higher yield potential of up to 70 tons per acre per year, while the Red royale variety has a lower yield potential of up to 30 tons per acre per year.

The soil type is also a critical factor in pawpaw production. Pawpaw grows well in well-drained soils with good fertility, organic matter, and a pH range of 6.0 to 6.5. The soil should also have good water-holding capacity to support healthy plant growth and high yields.

Proper farming practices, such as timely irrigation, regular fertilization, pest, and disease control, can significantly impact pawpaw production per acre. Irrigation should be done once or twice a week, depending on the soil moisture level, to ensure optimal plant growth and fruit development. Fertilizer application should be done every three months using a balanced NPK fertilizer or organic manure.

Pest and disease control is crucial in pawpaw production, as they can significantly reduce yields. Common pests and diseases that affect pawpaw in Kenya include fruit fly, papaya mealybug, powdery mildew, and anthracnose. Farmers should adopt appropriate control measures, such as spraying with recommended pesticides, to minimize damage.

In conclusion, the average pawpaw production per acre in Kenya depends on several factors, including the variety grown, soil type, weather conditions, and farming practices. Proper land preparation, selection of the right planting materials, appropriate planting techniques, mulching, regular irrigation, fertilizer application, pruning, and pest and disease control measures can significantly impact pawpaw production per acre. Farmers should adopt these practices to achieve high yields and maximize profits.

Cost Of Production On Pawpaw Farming In Kenya

The cost of production involved in pawpaw farming in Kenya can vary depending on several factors such as the size of the farm, variety grown, management practices, and input costs. However, below are some of the major cost components that farmers incur in pawpaw farming in Kenya:

1. Land preparation – This involves clearing the land, plowing, and tilling. The cost of land preparation can vary depending on the size of the farm and the prevailing market rates. On average, land preparation costs between Ksh 20,000 to Ksh 40,000 per acre.
2. Seedlings – Pawpaw seedlings can be propagated through seeds or cuttings. Seedlings are readily available from nurseries and can cost between Ksh 50 to Ksh 100 per seedling, depending on the variety.
3. Fertilizer – Fertilizer is essential in pawpaw farming as it provides the necessary nutrients for healthy plant growth and high yields. The cost of fertilizer can vary depending on the type and brand. On average, a bag of fertilizer costs between Ksh 2,500 to Ksh 6,500, and an acre of pawpaw may require around 10 to 15 bags of fertilizer.
4. Pesticides and herbicides – These are used to control pests and weeds, respectively. The cost of pesticides and herbicides can vary depending on the type and brand. On average, farmers may spend between Ksh 5,000 to Ksh 20,000 per acre on pesticides and herbicides.
5. Labor – Labor costs involve the cost of hiring workers for tasks such as planting, weeding, pruning, and harvesting. The cost of labor can vary depending on the region and prevailing market rates. On average, labor costs can range between Ksh 50,000 to Ksh 120,000 per acre.
6. Irrigation – Irrigation is essential in pawpaw farming, especially in areas with inadequate rainfall. The cost of irrigation depends on the type of irrigation system used, such as drip or sprinkler irrigation. On average, farmers may spend between Ksh 30,000 to Ksh 80,000 per acre on irrigation.
7. Miscellaneous expenses – These include costs such as transport, farm inputs, and taxes. Miscellaneous expenses can vary depending on the farm’s location and size.

Pawpaw farming in Kenya involves several cost components, including land preparation, seedlings, fertilizer, pesticides and herbicides, labor, irrigation, and miscellaneous expenses. Farmers should consider these costs when planning for pawpaw farming to ensure profitability and sustainability.

Profitability Of Pawpaw Farming In Kenya

Pawpaw farming is a profitable venture in Kenya due to the high demand for the fruit both locally and internationally. Pawpaw is a versatile fruit that is used for fresh consumption, juice extraction, and processing into value-added products such as jams, jellies, and dried fruits. The profitability of pawpaw farming in Kenya depends on several factors, including the variety grown, market demand, production costs, and management practices.

Variety selection is critical in pawpaw farming as different varieties have varying market demand and production costs. The best pawpaw varieties for farming in Kenya include the Solo, Sunrise, and Red Royal varieties. These varieties are high-yielding and have excellent market demand both locally and internationally.

Market demand is also a crucial factor in the profitability of pawpaw farming. Pawpaw has a ready market in Kenya, with demand being high throughout the year due to its versatility and nutritional value. Additionally, the export market for pawpaw is also growing, with European and Middle Eastern countries being the main markets for Kenyan pawpaw.

Production costs in pawpaw farming can vary depending on the region and management practices. However, pawpaw farming is generally considered a low-cost venture as it requires minimal inputs such as fertilizer and pesticides. Additionally, pawpaw can be intercropped with other crops such as vegetables and legumes, reducing production costs and increasing profitability.

Effective management practices such as proper irrigation, pest and disease control, and timely harvesting can also increase the profitability of pawpaw farming. Proper irrigation ensures that the plants have sufficient water, resulting in healthy growth and high yields. Pest and disease control measures such as crop rotation and use of organic pesticides prevent crop losses, reducing production costs and increasing profitability. Timely harvesting ensures that the fruits are of high quality and fetch a better price in the market.

In conclusion, pawpaw farming in Kenya is a profitable venture due to the high demand for the fruit and low production costs. Farmers can maximize profitability by selecting high-yielding varieties, implementing effective management practices, and tapping into both the local and export markets.

Fertilizer Recommendations On Pawpaw Farming In Kenya

Fertilizer is essential in pawpaw farming as it provides the necessary nutrients for healthy plant growth and high yields. The fertilizer recommendation for pawpaw farming in Kenya depends on the soil type, crop age, and variety grown. Generally, pawpaw requires a balanced fertilizer containing nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) in the ratio of 15:15:15.

Below are the best fertilizer recommendations for pawpaw farming in Kenya:

1. Basal fertilizer application: Basal fertilization involves applying fertilizer at planting. For young pawpaw plants, a handful of well-decomposed farmyard manure or compost mixed with 200g of Double Superphosphate (DSP) and 150g of muriate of potash (MOP) per plant is recommended. For mature pawpaw plants, apply 750g of NPK 17:17:17 per plant.
2. Top dressing: Top dressing involves applying fertilizer during the growing season to meet the plant’s nutrient requirements. For young pawpaw plants, top dressing should be done 6-8 weeks after planting using 100g of DSP and 50g of MOP per plant. For mature pawpaw plants, apply 400g of NPK 17:17:17 per plant during the growing season.
3. Organic fertilizers: Organic fertilizers such as farmyard manure, compost, and vermicompost are also recommended for pawpaw farming. Organic fertilizers improve soil fertility, increase water retention, and enhance soil microbial activity, leading to healthy plant growth and high yields.

It is essential to carry out soil analysis to determine the nutrient content and soil pH before applying fertilizers. Soil analysis helps farmers to apply the right fertilizer in the right amount, ensuring optimum plant growth and yield. Additionally, farmers should follow the fertilizer application guidelines and avoid over-fertilization, which can lead to nutrient imbalance and environmental pollution.

Balanced fertilization is crucial in pawpaw farming in Kenya. The recommended fertilizers for pawpaw farming include DSP, MOP, and NPK 17:17:17. Organic fertilizers such as farmyard manure and compost are also beneficial for soil fertility improvement. Farmers should carry out soil analysis and follow the fertilizer application guidelines to ensure optimum plant growth and yield.

Major Question. Why do pawpaw turn to be male?

Pawpaw, also known as papaya, is a tropical fruit tree that is commonly grown in warm regions of the world. The papaya tree is dioecious, meaning that it has separate male and female plants. In order for the female pawpaw plants to produce fruit, they need to be pollinated by male pawpaw plants.

Sometimes, however, female pawpaw plants can turn into males, a phenomenon known as gender expression reversal or hermaphroditism. This can occur due to a number of factors, including genetic mutations, environmental conditions, and disease.

One of the main reasons why female pawpaw plants may turn male is due to genetic mutations. Some pawpaw varieties are more prone to gender expression reversal than others, and certain genetic mutations can increase the likelihood of this occurring. In some cases, a female pawpaw plant may inherit a mutation that causes it to produce male flowers instead of female flowers.

Environmental conditions can also play a role in gender expression reversal in pawpaw plants. For example, exposure to certain chemicals or hormones can disrupt the plant’s hormonal balance and cause it to switch from female to male. Additionally, stressors such as drought, extreme heat or cold, or nutrient deficiencies can trigger a hormonal response in the plant that leads to gender expression reversal.

Disease can also be a factor in pawpaw gender expression reversal. Some plant diseases can affect the plant’s hormone production, which can cause it to switch from female to male. Additionally, pests such as mites or insects can damage the plant’s reproductive organs, leading to changes in gender expression.

Pawpaw plants may turn male due to a variety of factors, including genetic mutations, environmental conditions, and disease. While this can be a natural occurrence, it can also be a problem for farmers who rely on female pawpaw plants to produce fruit. To mitigate the risk of gender expression reversal, farmers can choose pawpaw varieties that are less prone to this phenomenon and provide optimal growing conditions for their plants.

What You Didn’t Know Regarding Pawpaw

Pawpaw (Asimina triloba) is the largest native fruit in North America, and it was an important food source for Native American tribes and early European settlers. However, despite its long history of cultivation, pawpaw is still a relatively unknown fruit to most people outside of its native range.

Here’s something you might not know: pawpaw flowers are unique in that they produce their own heat, a phenomenon known as thermogenesis. This helps to attract pollinators, such as blowflies and carrion beetles, which are attracted to the scent of the flowers and the warmth they produce. The heat can raise the temperature of the flower by as much as 15-20 degrees Celsius above the surrounding air temperature, making it more attractive to these insects. This adaptation is thought to have evolved because pawpaw trees grow in shady understory habitats, where pollinators are less abundant and temperatures are cooler.