Papaya
Irrigation practices for papaya, a tropical fruit crop grown in Oman.
Season water
1000-1400 mm
Soil moisture target
70–85%
Recommended irrigation schedule
Adjust slightly based on soil type, local climate, and field observations.
Establishment
Every 2-3 days
Vegetative Growth
Every 3-5 days
Flowering
Every 3-4 days
Fruit Development
Every 3-4 days
Mature Trees
Every 4-6 days
Best practices in the field
- Maintain consistent moisture especially during establishment
- Use drip irrigation for water efficiency and to avoid wetting foliage
- Critical irrigation during flowering and fruit set
- Ensure adequate water during fruit development for good size
- Apply water in basins around plant base for traditional methods
- Monitor soil moisture at 30-50 cm depth
- Avoid water stress as papaya is sensitive to drought
- Mulch around plants to conserve soil moisture
Common mistakes to avoid
- Water stress causing poor fruit development and small fruits
- Over-irrigation leading to root rot
- Irregular watering causing fruit drop or poor quality
- Insufficient water during flowering affecting fruit set
- Wetting foliage causing fungal diseases
- Not maintaining consistent moisture throughout growth cycle