About the Paw Paw Tree

by Bailey Sons – December 31, 1969

The Paw Paw tree, scientifically known as Asimina triloba, is a unique and fascinating native tree often overlooked in favor of more common fruit trees.

With its tropical-looking leaves and deliciously sweet fruit, the Paw Paw tree offers a distinctive charm and a touch of the exotic to gardens and landscapes. If you're intrigued by this lesser-known tree, here's a comprehensive guide that provides essential information about Paw Paw tree planting, care, and cultivation.

Native Beauty: The Paw Paw tree is unequivocally indigenous to the eastern regions of the United States and certain parts of Canada. This plant thrives for hardiness in areas with moderate climates, specifically in zones 5 through 8. This plant thrives for hardiness in regions with average temperatures, specifically in zones 5 through 8. This tree is often found in forests and along riverbanks, making it a natural fit for landscapes with similar conditions.

Growth Habit: Paw Paw trees are small to medium-sized deciduous trees that typically reach heights of 15 to 30 feet. They have a unique growth habit, with large, drooping leaves that create a tropical feel in regions where such foliage is uncommon.

Sunlight and Soil Requirements: Pawpaw trees can grow in partial or full sun but tolerate more shade than other fruit trees. Pawpaw trees can grow in partial shade or full sun but tolerate more shade than other fruit trees. Pawpaw trees are well-suited for various growing conditions, including partial shade and full sun. It's worth noting that these trees can tolerate more shade than other fruit trees, making them an excellent option for gardens or landscapes with limited sunlight.

Pawpaw trees are well-suited for various growing conditions, including partial shade and full sun. It's worth noting that these trees can tolerate more shade than other fruit trees, making them an excellent option for gardens or landscapes with limited sunlight.

They thrive in well-draining, loamy soils that are rich in organic matter. Soil pH should be pH 5.5 to 7.0. Pollination and Fruit Set: Unlike many fruit trees, Paw Paw trees have an exciting pollination process. They rely on carrion flies and beetles for pollination, emitting a foul smell similar to rotting meat to attract these insects. For successful fruit production, planting multiple Paw Paw trees to enhance cross-pollination is often recommended.

Fruit Development: The Paw Paw tree's fruit is the show's star. The fruit resembles a sizeable green mango or custard apple, with a custard-like texture and a sweet, tropical flavor. The skin can be easily bruised, so handle the fruit with care.

As the fruit ripens, its color changes from green to yellowish. Cultivar Selection: When choosing Paw Paw trees for planting, consider selecting cultivars adapted to your climate and soil conditions. Different cultivars may vary in fruit size, flavor, and cold hardiness.

Popular Paw Paw cultivars include 'Sunflower,' 'Overleese,' and 'Mango.' Planting Time: The best time to plant Paw Paw trees is in the early spring or late fall when the weather is more relaxed, and the trees are dormant. Establishing its root system before facing the stress of hot summer temperatures is crucial for the tree's survival and ability to thrive in the future.

Establishing its root system before meeting the stress of hot summer temperatures is essential for the tree's survival and ability to succeed in the future. Planting Process: For optimal growth of your Paw Paw tree, it's recommended to dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and at the same depth.

Happy planting! Place the tree firmly into the hole, ensuring the root ball's top is level with the ground. Place the tree firmly into the hole, ensuring the root ball's top is level with the environment. Make sure that the soil is packed into the hole and given a thorough watering, being mindful to avoid any pockets of air. This will help to prepare the area for future growth and ensure healthy plants.

Spacing Considerations: Paw Paw trees should be spaced approximately 10 to 20 feet apart, depending on the expected mature size of the variety. Proper spacing ensures adequate air circulation and sunlight for healthy growth.

Mulching Benefits: We highly recommend applying a layer of fantastic organic mulch around the base of the majestic Paw Paw tree. Not only will it retain soil moisture, but it will also regulate temperature and suppress pesky weed growth. Keep the mulch a few inches from the trunk to prevent moisture-related issues.

Watering Routine: During the first growing season, provide consistent watering to help the young Paw Paw tree establish its root system. Once installed, Paw Paw trees are relatively drought-tolerant, but regular watering during dry spells promotes healthier fruit production.

Pruning Practices: Paw Paw trees typically have a natural, somewhat bushy growth habit. We highly recommend lighting pruning on your tree to eliminate dead or diseased branches while promoting better air flow and sunlight exposure.

Disease and Pest Management: While relatively low-maintenance, Paw Paw trees can be susceptible to certain pests and diseases. Common issues include fungal diseases such as leaf spots and fruit black spots. Regularly inspect your trees for signs of infection and address any problems promptly.

Fertilization Strategy: Paw Paw trees benefit from a balanced, slow-release fertilizer applied in early spring before new growth emerges. It is imperative to steer clear of excessive nitrogen, as it can result in an overgrowth of foliage to the detriment of fruit production.

Protecting Young Trees: Young Paw Paw trees are particularly vulnerable to deer browsing. Consider using tree guards or other protective measures to prevent deer from damaging young plants.

Winter Protection: Winter protection can benefit young Paw Paw trees in colder climates. Wrapping the trunk with burlap or providing a layer of mulch around the base can effectively insulate the roots from freezing temperatures.

Harvesting the Fruit: Paw Paw fruit is ready for harvest when it yields slightly to gentle pressure and turns green to yellow. Harvest the fruit carefully by twisting it gently from the stem to prevent damage.

Eating Paw Paw Fruit: The custard-like texture and unique tropical flavor of Paw Paw fruit make it a delicacy. Scoop out the creamy flesh and discard the large seeds. Enjoy or incorporate the fruit into various recipes, such as smoothies, ice cream, or baked goods.

Patience and Yield: Paw Paw trees typically take several years to produce fruit. The time to first harvest varies depending on tree age, growing conditions, and cultivar. Once established, mature trees can yield a substantial amount of fruit.

Enjoying the Experience: Growing Paw Paw trees is not only about the end product – the delicious fruit – but also about the unique journey of cultivating an unusual and often overlooked native tree. Embrace the process, from planting to harvest, and relish connecting with nature's bounty in a new and exciting way.

In conclusion, the Paw Paw tree offers a blend of exotic allure and homegrown charm to gardens and landscapes. With its tropical appearance, sweet fruit, and native origins, it's a tree that deserves more recognition and appreciation.

By understanding its growth requirements and providing attentive care, you can experience the joy of cultivating Paw Paw trees and reaping the rewards of their delicious harvest.

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The Pawpaw tree is a small deciduous tree with large, tropical-looking leaves and greenish-brown, banana-like fruits. It is known for its unique flavor and suitability for North American temperate regions. It is one of our hottest sellers because of its native fruiting abilities, distinctive appearance, contributions to biodiversity, potential for edible fruit, ability to create natural habitats, and role in promoting ecological balance, which makes it a valuable addition to outdoor spaces. One of the key advantages of using it in landscaping is its distinctive appearance. Our pawpaw trees are already pollinated when shipped and we guarantee they will bear fruit at maturity. Pawpaw trees are a popular choice, and property owners are looking for medium-sized plants with an unusual look. They have a slim, grayish-brown trunk topped by thick clusters of leaves. Its crown is usually higher than it is vast and can be slightly triangular. They can reach up to 50 feet high. Their pleasantly compact shape makes them look excellent when planted as a focal point in a lawn. Landscapers also like to plant them in bunches or rows to create accent points near driveways, sidewalks, or other landscape features.  Pawpaw Trees (Carica papaya) Have Stunning Foliage  One of the most distinctive traits of this plant is its gorgeous leaves. Each branch is draped in large leaves that gracefully droop downwards. The leaves are a smooth oval shape with a slight flare towards the tip, and they are rich, emerald green for most of the year. In early fall, long before other plants change color, these leaves turn a rich golden-yellow color that adds plenty of appeal to your landscape. Pawpaw Tree Offers Appealing Flowers in Spring Starting in mid-spring, this plant begins to produce some very eye-catching blossoms. The flowers of this plant are a rich, purplish-red color. The deep burgundy flowers have a set of three small petals nestled inside of a set of three larger petals. The flowers often appear before the plant regains the leaves it lost in winter, so the effect of the deep purple blooms on bare branches is quite striking. The Pawpaw Tree Fruits In Summer And Fall During the summer and fall months, the Pawpaw Tree produces some exciting fruit. These fruits start around two inches wide and gradually grow to six inches. They're an elongated, oval shape with a green, matte peel. The fruits' colors can include subtle variations of yellow, brown, orange, and green, adding many stunning features to the plant. The contrast between the darker leaves and the paler fruit clusters makes this plant look especially interesting and exciting. Pawpaw Trees Are A Favorite Of Customers At TN Nursery Where do pawpaw trees grow best? Pawpaws grow best in USDA hardiness zone 5-8 on neutral to moderately acidic well-draining loam soil, deep and rich loam soil. 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Fungicides should be used sparingly, nitrogen in particular being the main one which stops fruit production.  How long do pawpaw trees live?  Pawpaws are said to live for about two and a half (25-25) years if allowed the best possible growing conditions, but they can live much longer. Usually fertile for about 10-15 years of their reproductive life. Where do pawpaw trees grow best? Pawpaw trees are planted in the USDA hardiness zone 5-8 in neutral to slightly acidic soil with good drainage and deep and fertile loam soil. They prefer full to partial shade, commonly in river valleys or forests but not in the major canopy.  How many pawpaw trees are required for fruiting?  Fruit development requires that pawpaw trees should be cross-pollinated; this usually requires a minimum of two different pawpaw trees. 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Pawpaw Tree - TN Nursery

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The Pawpaw tree is a small deciduous tree with large, tropical-looking leaves and greenish-brown, banana-like fruits. It is known for its unique flavor and suitability for North American temperate regions. It is one of our hottest sellers because of its native fruiting abilities, distinctive appearance, contributions to biodiversity, potential for edible fruit, ability to create natural habitats, and role in promoting ecological balance, which makes it a valuable addition to outdoor spaces. One of the key advantages of using it in landscaping is its distinctive appearance. Our pawpaw trees are already pollinated when shipped and we guarantee they will bear fruit at maturity. Pawpaw trees are a popular choice, and property owners are looking for medium-sized plants with an unusual look. They have a slim, grayish-brown trunk topped by thick clusters of leaves. Its crown is usually higher than it is vast and can be slightly triangular. They can reach up to 50 feet high. Their pleasantly compact shape makes them look excellent when planted as a focal point in a lawn. Landscapers also like to plant them in bunches or rows to create accent points near driveways, sidewalks, or other landscape features.  Pawpaw Trees (Carica papaya) Have Stunning Foliage  One of the most distinctive traits of this plant is its gorgeous leaves. Each branch is draped in large leaves that gracefully droop downwards. The leaves are a smooth oval shape with a slight flare towards the tip, and they are rich, emerald green for most of the year. In early fall, long before other plants change color, these leaves turn a rich golden-yellow color that adds plenty of appeal to your landscape. Pawpaw Tree Offers Appealing Flowers in Spring Starting in mid-spring, this plant begins to produce some very eye-catching blossoms. The flowers of this plant are a rich, purplish-red color. The deep burgundy flowers have a set of three small petals nestled inside of a set of three larger petals. The flowers often appear before the plant regains the leaves it lost in winter, so the effect of the deep purple blooms on bare branches is quite striking. The Pawpaw Tree Fruits In Summer And Fall During the summer and fall months, the Pawpaw Tree produces some exciting fruit. These fruits start around two inches wide and gradually grow to six inches. They're an elongated, oval shape with a green, matte peel. The fruits' colors can include subtle variations of yellow, brown, orange, and green, adding many stunning features to the plant. The contrast between the darker leaves and the paler fruit clusters makes this plant look especially interesting and exciting. Pawpaw Trees Are A Favorite Of Customers At TN Nursery Where do pawpaw trees grow best? Pawpaws grow best in USDA hardiness zone 5-8 on neutral to moderately acidic well-draining loam soil, deep and rich loam soil. They like full or part shade, often river valleys or forest but not in the major canopy.  How many pawpaw trees are required for fruiting?  Fruit development requires that pawpaw trees should be cross-pollinated; this usually requires a minimum of two different pawpaw trees. Other insects like bees are very important as they have to transport pollen from one flower to another.  When is it possible to get fruits from the pawpaw tree?  Pawpaw trees generally take between 4-8 years to start producing fruits based on the environment and type of pawpaw. Grafting also helps in reducing the time taken before fruiting.  How can we best fertilize the pawpaw trees?  10-10-10 - A slow-release, balanced fertilizer should be spread on the pawpaw trees when they are in flower. Fungicides should be used sparingly, nitrogen in particular being the main one which stops fruit production.  How long do pawpaw trees live?  Pawpaws are said to live for about two and a half (25-25) years if allowed the best possible growing conditions, but they can live much longer. Usually fertile for about 10-15 years of their reproductive life. Where do pawpaw trees grow best? Pawpaw trees are planted in the USDA hardiness zone 5-8 in neutral to slightly acidic soil with good drainage and deep and fertile loam soil. They prefer full to partial shade, commonly in river valleys or forests but not in the major canopy.  How many pawpaw trees are required for fruiting?  Fruit development requires that pawpaw trees should be cross-pollinated; this usually requires a minimum of two different pawpaw trees. Other insects like bees are very important as they have to transport pollen from one flower to another.  When is it possible to get fruits from the pawpaw tree?  Pawpaw trees generally take between 4-8 years to start producing fruits based on the environment and type of pawpaw. Grafting also helps in reducing the time taken before fruiting.  How can we best fertilize the pawpaw trees?  A balanced but slow-releasing fertilizer, 10-10-10, should be applied to pawpaw trees at the time they are growing. The use of fertilizers should be done sparingly, especially nitrogen, since it hampers fruiting.  How long do pawpaw trees live?  When given the best environments to grow, pawpaw trees are known to live for approximately twenty to twenty-five (20-25) years, but they can also live longer. They are usually fertile for about 10-15 years in their reproductive years.

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Apple Fruit Trees - TN Nursery

Apple Fruit Trees 3-4'

Apple Trees are valuable contributors to local ecosystems. Their blossoms provide nectar and pollen for bees and other pollinators, aiding in pollinating nearby plants. When they fall, the leaves add organic matter to the soil, enriching its fertility and promoting a healthy microorganism population. Enjoy the Beauty Of the Fruits of Apple Trees (Malus domestic) No backyard is complete without a few fruit-bearing trees in it. You might have a beautiful arrangement of flowers and other plants, but you need fruit trees and plants. So, for new and experienced gardeners trying to incorporate fruits into their landscaping, start with apple fruit trees.  Apple Day is just around the corner, meaning that planting an apple tree in your backyard makes total sense between October and March. Imagine walking out of your house into your backyard and picking an apple to snack on. While growing a whole tree in your backyard sounds a little overwhelming, planting and growing a tree is relatively easy. Fruit trees are a great way to add dimension to your landscape and bear the most delicious and fresh fruits for you to enjoy. When you buy an apple tree, it not only provides you with fresh food but also offers a natural food source for various wildlife, including birds and insects. Features of Apple Fruit Trees Compared to growing vegetables in your garden, fruit trees are effortless to grow and relatively low maintenance, making them the perfect fruit plant for beginners. Apple trees require full sun to grow. A garden with at least 8 hours of sunlight daily is perfect for growing apples. Apple Fruit Trees Bears Stunning Blooms Before turning into a fruit, the tree bears vibrant blooms with rich nectar that help attract different pollinators to provide them with food and shelter. Fruit trees improve air quality by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen, contributing to a healthier environment. Check Out Our Many Varieties of Apple Trees At TN Nursery You can get organic apple trees for sale from TN Nursery today and turn your flower garden into a local farmer’s market. Our other top 3 best-seller fruit trees include Plum Fruit Tree, Mulberry Tree, and Peach Fruit Tree. How long does an apple tree take to fruit? Apple trees begin bearing fruit 2 to 5 years after the plant is established, depending on the type of apple tree planted or the rootstock used or grafted. Some dwarf and semi-dwarf apple trees bear fruit earlier than trees of standard size.  How do I pollinate an apple tree? Apple trees, in particular, depend on cross-pollination from another apple variety for the plant to bear fruits. To promote pollination, you can plant close to different apple varieties or apply some measures to attract bees: plant flowering plants nearby.  Are apple trees self-fertile?  Many apple trees bear what is known as 'incompatible' pollen and, therefore, require pollen from a different type of apple tree in order to bear fruit. However, there are a few that are partially self-fruitful but produce more fruit when cross-pollinated, for example Golden Delicious.  Does apple reproduce by cutting?  Although cuttings are possible for apple trees, the practice is a bit finicky and uncommon. Grass-graftage is a decision made by the individual but apple tree budding usually involves rootstock. What is the lifespan of an apple tree?  Originating from Central Asia, an apple tree can still yield fruit if it is still alive for 50-80 years. However, its most fruitful years are between 10 and 30 years of production from when the tree is planted.
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