Pawpaw Trees: A Guide to Growing and Pollinating for Fruit
Introduction
Pawpaw trees are native to the eastern United States and produce a delicious, custard-like fruit. However, getting fruit from pawpaw trees can be challenging due to their specific pollination requirements. This article will provide a comprehensive guide to growing and pollinating pawpaw trees to help you enjoy this unique and tasty treat.
Why Pawpaws Don’t Fruit
Pawpaw trees require cross-pollination, meaning pollen from one tree must be transferred to the flowers of another tree in order to produce fruit. Even with cross-pollination, pawpaws have a low rate of fruit set. This is because pawpaw flowers have both male and female reproductive parts, but they need a pollinator to transfer the pollen from the male to the female parts.
Pollinators for Pawpaws
The most efficient pollinators for pawpaws are bees. However, for reasons unknown, bees do not typically pollinate pawpaw trees. Instead, flies and certain types of beetles are the primary pollinators. These insects are less efficient than bees, which is why pawpaws have a low fruit set.
How to Make a Pawpaw Tree Fruit
There are two main strategies for getting pawpaw trees to produce fruit:
- Hand Pollination: This involves using a small paintbrush to transfer pollen from the male flower parts to the female flower parts. To collect pollen, hold a bowl or small bag under a male flower and tap it to release the pollen. Once you have a decent amount of pollen, use the paintbrush to “paint” it onto the female parts of the flowers. The female part is the central one in each flower, called the stigma.
- Roadkill Pollination: This is a less time-consuming but more unsavory method. Some growers hang roadkill from the tree branches to attract flies. The flies will feed on the roadkill and then visit the pawpaw flowers, transferring pollen in the process.
Growing Pawpaw Trees
Pawpaw trees are relatively easy to grow. They prefer moist, well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. Pawpaw trees are also relatively pest- and disease-resistant.
Harvesting Pawpaws
Pawpaws ripen in the fall. The fruit is ripe when it is soft to the touch and has a slightly yellow color. Pawpaws can be eaten fresh, cooked, or used in baked goods.
Conclusion
Pawpaw trees are a unique and delicious addition to any garden. By understanding their pollination requirements and following the tips outlined in this article, you can increase your chances of enjoying a bountiful harvest of pawpaw fruit.
