Papaya is an exotic fruit that in Spain is usually imported from other countries, since the climate that we have here in most of the territory is not the most favorable for the plant to grow as we would all like. But does that mean that it is NOT possible to grow it in our country? Absolutely.
In fact, it is a fantastic greenhouse plant, which does not suffer from the cold (it does with frost), and it is even possible to have it on a patio with lots of light, in a pretty pot. So Next I am going to show you how to take care of papaya in Spain.
What climate does papaya need?
La papaya is a plant that grows wild in Mesoamerica, where temperatures remain between a minimum of 10ºC and a maximum of 30ºC, with an annual average of 20 to 25ºC. Another important detail is the annual rainfall: between 1500 and 2500 mm, so the humidity of the environment is high, since in addition to raining a lot, it does so quite often.
Likewise, it is very important that the sun hits it directly, so that it can have a good development, and a higher yield. Therefore, it is advisable to have it outdoors whenever possible, so that it grows well.
Can you spend the whole year abroad in Spain?
Image – Wikimedia/Andra Waagmeester
As it is a plant that does not resist frost, the answer to that question is: no, at least not in the whole country. Yes, it can be in a large part of the Canary Islands, the Tropical Coast of Granada, or in some points in the south of Andalusia, but in the rest we will have to try to protect it as soon as temperatures drop below 10ºC.
And is that when the cool begins, its growth rate becomes slower and slower, until a moment comes when it stops completely. So we have to do everything in our power so that our papaya is fine, and you don't have to worry about low temperatures.
When is papaya planted in Spain?
Since you need heat, the most suitable time is between mid-spring (April/May) and early summer (June). But this will depend on the climate of each area, since although, as we well know, depending on the place, temperatures begin to rise later than in others. For example, it is common that in some places summer begins -unofficially- at the beginning of June, and that in others it takes longer.
This is important to know. We must take into account the climate of our area to know exactly when to sow the papaya seeds. But in any case, if we want to do it in early spring and it is still cold, that is, if the temperatures are still below 15ºC, we can do it in a heated nursery. But she remembers: they need a lot of light. If you do not have a room where there is much light, it is advisable to get a growth lamp for plants.
How should it be done?
If you want to sow papaya seeds, you simply have to fill a pot with soil for seedlings, as this, water, and place the seeds on the surface. You have to put them separated from each other, and bury them a little, since they cannot germinate if the sun hits them so directly. And finally, you have to take the seedbed to a sunny place.
Then, you should only water when the soil dries up, so that the seeds do not have time to dehydrate. But also, It is highly recommended -I would even say that it is essential- to put some molluscicide (on sale here) or a snail repellent, because these animals devour young papayas.
Once they get big enough, to the point that their roots are sticking out of their holes, it's time to separate them and plant them in individual pots. Later, when they have rooted, you can decide whether to plant them in the ground, or in a larger pot.
How long does papaya take to bear fruit?
Image - Flickr / Dinesh Valke
Although it is a very beautiful plant, the truth is that it is grown mainly for its fruit, as it is edible. So, of course, if you have any papayas, you probably want to know how long it takes to fruit. Well, this will also depend a lot on the climate of the area and the care it receives, but Assuming temperatures are warm year-round and it receives frequent watering, plus it's in the ground, it won't take more than 2 years to fruit.
But of course, in many parts of Spain we have to count on the cold, that is, with temperatures that remain cool for several weeks in autumn, winter and, in certain areas, also in early spring. This greatly retards their growth. Therefore, we do not have to worry if it does not bear fruit until after 3 years.
How much is papaya worth in Spain?
Again I must say: it depends. It depends on whether it is imported -which usually happens most of the time- or produced in the country itself, and whether it is papaya season or not. It will also depend on whether it comes from organic farming or not. Thus, if it is organic and/or imported, or if it is not the season, the price is usually higher. Oh well, in general, it is around 5-7 euros per kilo.
In my opinion, it pays to produce your own papaya, even if you have to protect it at home or in a greenhouse during the winter, because once it bears fruit, we will see that it produces many, many fruits. And do you know what? The seeds are sold in bags with 10-20 units for 1 or 2 euros... and the vast majority germinate!
So, if you dare to grow papaya in Spain, keep in mind what we have discussed here to be successful with it.