THE MIGHTY PAWPAW TREE
We offer premium grafted pawpaw trees, including Peterson pawpaws and Kentucky State University varieties. Grafted trees produce larger, better-tasting fruit with fewer seeds and typically bear in four to five years, while seedling trees may take six to eight years and vary widely in fruit quality.
For reliable fruit production, plant two different varieties or two seedlings for cross-pollination. Pawpaws are native to eastern North America and naturally grow as understory trees near streams and woodlands. They perform well in sun or partial shade, prefer well-drained soil, and are hardy in USDA Zones 5–8.
When planting, dig a hole deep enough for the taproot, handle roots carefully, water well during the first year, and mulch around the base of the tree.
UNIQUELY DELICIOUS FRUIT
The flavor of pawpaw is hard to describe but unmistakably delicious. Often compared to mango, banana, or pineapple, it has a uniquely tropical taste. The pulp ranges from pale yellow to deep orange and has a smooth, custard-like texture.
Pawpaw fruit grows in clusters of one to seven and is ripe when soft to the touch, similar to an avocado. Fruit picked too early will not ripen. Fresh pawpaws spoil quickly—usually within five days—but the pulp freezes well.
We sell frozen pawpaw pulp in one-pound bags. Seeds are removed, the pulp is processed to a smooth consistency, and then frozen. Thaw in the refrigerator and use within two days.
PAWPAW SEEDS
Pawpaw seeds are relatively large, easy to handle, and quite beautiful. Seeds are available for purchase in the fall, from October through March, and are shipped in a state of cold stratification.
Seeds should not be allowed to freeze or dry out and require three months of cold stratification. They may be sown outdoors in the fall, where they will experience winter cold and germinate the following summer. Alternatively, seeds can be kept cold and moist in the refrigerator for three months, then sown indoors in pots filled with potting soil and lightly covered. Seeds should germinate within 10 to 12 weeks. Once seedlings are large enough to transplant, they will need individual deep pots to accommodate their taproot. Seedlings started indoors should be hardened off before being moved outdoors.