Choosing the right variety of pawpaw is key to achieving high yields, good market value, and customer satisfaction. However, many farmers plant without proper guidance, leading to poor harvests and losses.
Dan Kirunda, a pawpaw farmer from Bumozi village in Buyanga sub-county, Bugweri district, says not all pawpaw types perform the same.
“When I started, I grew local varieties, but the fruits were small and took long to mature, later, I switched to improved varieties like red lady, solo, and sunrise,” he recalls.
According to Kirunda, identifying the right variety depends on the farmer’s purpose, whether it is for home consumption, juice processing, or selling at fresh markets.
“Red Lady is good for the market because it’s uniform, attractive, and has a longer shelf life,” he adds.
Gideon Zakke, an agronomist, advises farmers to consult experts or agricultural extension workers before buying seedlings.
“Look at disease resistance, fruit size, sweetness, and the plant’s adaptability to your area’s climate. Also, consider whether you want hermaphrodite plants, which bear more consistent fruit,” he says.
Harriet Nalule, a vendor who sells pawpaws in local markets, says customer preferences are changing.
“Buyers now want sweet, medium-sized fruits with soft skin. Red-fleshed varieties sell faster,” she explains.
Zakke further urges farmers to buy certified seedlings from reputable nurseries instead of planting from random seeds. “Seedlings from unknown sources can be a waste of time and money,” he warns.
Choosing the right pawpaw variety requires research, expert advice, and knowledge of your target market. With the right decisions, pawpaw farming can be a fruitful venture both for home use and commercial gain.
