Choose ripe papaya fruit and collect mature black seeds
Remove the gelatinous coating by rinsing seeds in water
Dry seeds in shade for 1 to 2 days
Fill pots or seed trays with well-draining potting mix
Sow seeds about 1/2 inch deep
Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged
Place containers in a warm, sunny location
Maintain temperatures around 70 to 90°F
Germination usually occurs in 2 to 4 weeks
Thin seedlings and keep the strongest ones
Transplant seedlings when they have several true leaves
Choose a full-sun planting site with fertile, well-drained soil
Space plants several feet apart
Water regularly, especially during dry periods
Apply mulch around the base to retain moisture
Feed with a balanced fertilizer during active growth
Protect plants from frost and strong winds
Remove male plants if fruit production is the goal
Harvest papayas when skin begins to turn yellow or orange