venturabananas

The guys at Papaya Tree nursery near you have been growing babaco in the San Fernando Valley for decades. I think they recommend planting them partial shade if you live in the valley. Keep in mind that babaco tastes nothing like a papaya. I really like, but don't expect papaya flavor -- it is tart and refreshing.

I have several Mexican papayas that haven't done much in the year and a half I've had them, though one is now flowering. I also planted a couple of TR Hovey papayas this spring which are now about 3.5' and just starting to make flowers. So far, I'm happy with them, but I don't know how they'll do over winter.

Go talk to the guys at Papaya Tree Nursery, they'll be able to tell you what will grow well in your environment. They sell several self-fruitful papayas.

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