Influence of environmental factors and production practices on the growth and productivity of pawpaw (Carica papaya L.) in south western Nigeria - A review

Introduction. Maximizing the production and productivity of pawpaw (Carica papaya L.) under rain-fed conditions requires a better understanding of the crop, which in turn will enhance its acceptability among fruit growers in the tropics. Materials and methods. This paper reviews the important limitations observed in the production practices, assesses the various factors that contribute to pawpaw productivity and evaluates the potential to optimizethe crop development, its management and economic outputs. Results and discussion. The number of leaves and plant leaf area index are very responsive to growing conditions but more research is needed on the effect of canopy variation between cultivars. Studies on pawpaw root systems are few, especially the impact of different soil types on rooting volume, despite their essential role in the plant growth. As a long duration crop with replant problems, early inter-planting with annuals and crop rotation or inclusion with compatible crops are discussed. Successful inter-planting requires plant spacing suitable for the plant architecture of various cultivars as well as appropriate plant population and time of inter-planting with secondary crops. Conclusion. Optimizing pawpaw management can improve the economic performance of this underutilized crop and increase the benefits accruable from its adoption by fruit growers.