Paw Paw plants are easy to grow and by following planting and cultivation instructions you will be rewarded in time. When plants are delivered you should take care to ensure they are well watered before planting. If you cannot plant your Paw Paw straight away ensure it remains moist and keep it in a bright and cool place.

Position

Paw Paw plants do not tolerate a position in full sun and grow best in dappled shade. A position underneath a tree or in an area dominated by a large structure will be ideal as plants grow wild in wooded areas. Paw Paw plants can grow quite large and it is best to take this in to consideration when planting. 

A well drained, fertile and deep soil is required for the Paw Paw. Plants have tap roots and are therefore likely to better in a soil that is deep and open. Prior to planting you can incorporate plenty of organic matter in to the planting hole and surrounding area to help with drainage and fertility. The addition of well-rotted garden compost, manure, leaf mould or multi-purpose compost will be sure to get your plant off to the best start possible.

Care

Paw Paw plants are relatively care free. A regular application of general fertiliser in the growing season will benefit plants and you may also wish to apply a mulch in Spring to help conserve moisture whilst adding nutrients to the soil.  Water as necessary, this is especially important in the first year after planting as plants will not yet be established.

Harvesting

Fruits will be ready for picking from September onwards. You can harvest fruits when they have changed in color from green to yellow. Remove each fruit by hand or with the use of pruners or lopers. Paw Paw fruits do not store well and as such should be eaten shortly after harvest.

Top Tip

To ensure maximum fruiting you may wish to plant more than one tree. This will help to improve cross pollination and increase fruit yield.