1.1. Wind break
Papaya do not tolerate strong winds and the establishment of wind breaks hedges is necessary.
1.2. Mulching
This is recommended after sowing or transplanting. The mulching should not be so close to the stem of the seedlings, give an allowance of about 10cm from the stem. The mulch should be removed so that the development of the young plant is not hindered.
1.3. Weed control
Frequent hand weeding is essential and care need to be taken not to damage the roots of the young plants. Keep the area around the stem weed free. Slashing is not enough as the seedlings will still suffer from weed competition.
1.4. Intercropping
Papaya grows best when planted under full sunlight. Intercropping can be done when papaya are young. Low growing annual crops such as capsicums, beans, onions and cabbages are suitable intercrops.
1.5. Manure and fertilizer
Apply manure at the rate of 40kg per tree before the rains begin every year. It should be applied around the plant basin and incorporated well into the soil.
Apply 40g of CAN per tree two months after transplanting in the first year. If possible apply a split application of 60g CAN per tree at the beginning of the long and short rains. After which 200g of compound fertilizer can be applied per tree per year at the beginning of the rains.
1.6. Fruit thinning
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