Introduction to PawPaws
Paw paw trees, also known as Asimina triloba, are fascinating and unique fruit trees native to North America. These trees are beloved for their delicious and tropical-flavored fruits, which are often described as a combination of banana, mango, and melon. With their attractive, large, and dark green leaves, paw paw trees also make for beautiful additions to any garden or landscape. Paw paw trees are relatively small, reaching heights of around 15 to 20 feet, making them suitable for both large and small spaces. They thrive in USDA hardiness zones 5 to 9, making them adaptable to a wide range of climates. These trees prefer well-drained soil and partial shade, although they can tolerate full sun with adequate moisture.
In addition to their delicious fruits, paw paw trees also offer aesthetic value. Their large, drooping leaves provide a lush and tropical feel to any landscape. During the fall season, the leaves turn a vibrant yellow, adding a burst of color to the surroundings.
Whether you're a fruit enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply looking to add a unique and beautiful tree to your garden, paw paw trees are an excellent choice. With their tasty fruits, attractive foliage, and adaptability, these trees are sure to bring joy and delight to any gardener or landscape enthusiast.
Planting Location
Plant Pawpaws in part to full sun, in moist but well drained soil
PawPaw Fertilizing
For new trees, use bonemeal or myke in the planting hole. You can also use Liquid Transplant fertilizer when watering newly planted trees. For established trees, apply a Fruit Tree and Berry food once in early spring before new growth begins.
PawPaw Pollination
To ensure successful pollination and fruit set, it is recommended to have at least two different paw paw tree varieties planted in close proximity. This allows for cross-pollination between the trees, as the flies move from one tree to another, carrying pollen with them.
Paw paw pollination is a fascinating process that involves a unique relationship between the paw paw tree and specialized pollinators. Unlike many fruit trees, paw paws are not self-pollinating, which means they require cross-pollination between different trees to produce fruit.
The primary pollinators of paw paw trees are small flies, specifically the paw paw fruit fly (Procecidochares utilis). These flies are attracted to the strong scent emitted by the paw paw flowers, which resembles the smell of decaying meat. The flowers of the paw paw tree are dark maroon or purple, and they have a bell-like shape.
The paw paw fruit fly is attracted to the flowers and enters them to lay its eggs. While inside, the flies inadvertently transfer pollen from the male reproductive structures (stamens) to the female reproductive structures (pistils) of the flowers. This process is known as pollination.
Interestingly, paw paw trees have a unique reproductive mechanism called "protogynous dichogamy." This means that the flowers of the paw paw tree have two phases: the female phase and the male phase. When a flower first opens, it is in the female phase, with the stigma ready to receive pollen. After a day or two, the flower transitions to the male phase, where the stamens release pollen. This sequential maturation helps prevent self-pollination and encourages cross-pollination between different trees.
It's important to note that paw paw trees can also be hand-pollinated if natural pollinators are scarce in your area. This involves transferring pollen from the stamens of one flower to the stigma of another flower using a small brush or cotton swab.
PawPaw Pruning
Pruning a paw paw tree is an important part of its care and maintenance. Here are some steps to guide you through the process:
Timing:
The best time to prune a paw paw tree is during late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. This allows the tree to heal quickly and minimizes stress.
Remove dead or damaged branches:
Start by inspecting the tree for any dead, diseased, or damaged branches. Use clean and sharp pruning shears or loppers to cut these branches back to the main trunk or a healthy lateral branch. This helps improve the overall health and appearance of the tree.
Thin out crowded branches:
Paw paw trees can develop dense foliage, which can hinder air circulation and sunlight penetration. To promote better airflow and light distribution, selectively remove some of the crowded branches. Aim to maintain an open and balanced canopy.
Prune for shape and size: If your paw paw tree is growing too tall or wide, you can prune it to control its size and shape. Trim back the branches to the desired height and width, keeping in mind the natural form of the tree. Avoid excessive pruning, as it can reduce fruit production.
Prune suckers and water sprouts:
Paw paw trees can produce suckers (shoots emerging from the base of the tree) and water sprouts (vigorous vertical shoots). These should be pruned to maintain a clean and tidy appearance. Cut them back to the base or main branch.
Clean up and dispose of pruned branches:
Once you have finished pruning, gather and remove the pruned branches from the area. Properly dispose of them to prevent the spread of diseases or pests.
Remember to always use clean and sharp pruning tools to make clean cuts. It's also a good idea to sanitize your tools before and after pruning to prevent the spread of diseases. If you're unsure about any specific pruning techniques or have concerns about your paw paw tree, don't hesitate to consult with a local arborist or horticulturist for guidance.
PawPaw Care & Maintenance
Apply a dormant oil, lime sulphur spray in later winter to early spring, before new growth begins. Apply a 2-3 inch deep layer of mulch in fall to help protect the roots during winter.
Common PawPaw Varieties
While there are numerous paw paw tree varieties available, here are 10 popular ones that are well-regarded for their fruit quality, flavor, and overall performance:
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'Sunflower': This variety is known for its large, sweet, and flavorful fruits. It has a high sugar content and a creamy texture, making it a favorite among paw paw enthusiasts.
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'Susquehanna': Susquehanna is highly regarded for its large fruit size and excellent flavor. The fruits have a custard-like texture and a rich, tropical taste.
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'Shenandoah': Shenandoah is prized for its abundant fruit production and sweet flavor. The fruits are medium-sized and have a creamy, custard-like consistency.
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'Mango': As the name suggests, this variety is known for its mango-like flavor. The fruits are medium-sized and have a smooth, creamy texture.
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'Wells': Wells is a popular variety with medium to large-sized fruits. It has a sweet and rich flavor, often described as a blend of banana and melon.
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'Pennsylvania Golden': This variety is appreciated for its golden-yellow fruits and sweet, tropical flavor. The fruits are medium-sized and have a smooth, custard-like texture.
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'Overleese': Overleese is known for its high fruit yield and excellent flavor. The fruits are medium-sized and have a creamy, custard-like consistency.
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'NC-1': NC-1 is a variety developed by North Carolina State University. It produces large, flavorful fruits with a sweet and tropical taste.
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'Taylor': Taylor is a popular variety with medium-sized fruits and a sweet, custard-like flavor. It is known for its reliable fruit production.