From the page: Papaya: sweet on the table, powerful on your hair
Idea 8
Seedlings from the seed
Papaya has accompanied tropical peoples for centuries, and its gelatinous seeds sprout easily when well prepared. Each seed carries an embryo protected by a gel coating that inhibits germination — removing that layer and keeping constant moisture is what awakens the dormant life.
What you need
- Seeds from a very ripe papaya
- Room-temperature water
- A sieve or a piece of cloth
- A small container or plastic cup
- Light soil mixed with a bit of sand
How to make it
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1
Choose the dark, round seeds from the center of the ripe papaya, because the pale ones and those from the edges haven't fully matured and won't sprout.
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2
Rub the seeds between your hands or on a cloth under running water until all the gel comes off — this gel contains substances that delay germination.
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3
Place the seeds in a cup of water and set aside any that float: the good ones are denser and sink.
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4
Plant 1 centimeter deep in moist, light soil, as the seed is small and has no strength to push through compacted soil.
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5
Keep the container in a warm, bright spot, watering only to maintain moisture — waterlogging rots the seed.
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6
When the seedlings have two true leaves, transfer each one to its own container.
Finishing touches
Papaya trees like heat, strong sun, and fast-draining soil, so choose the sunniest spot of your home. A golden tip: plant several seeds, because a papaya tree can turn out to be male only, which doesn't bear fruit.
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