Growing Paw Paw Tree Tips

Photo: Miller Nurseries

Fossil evidence has shown that the American Paw Paw tree is indigenous to the United States. It is believed that the American Indians were responsible for spreading the trees from north to south by planting the lima bean-like seeds wherever they lived. The tree can survive in hardiness zones 4-15, with -25 degree winters.

 
There are several varieties of American Paw Paw on the market. To find varieties available in your area check out local nurseries or home and garden centers. If you can’t find any paw paw trees locally, do an online search for other nurseries. For example, Miller Nurseries offers seedlings and grafted varieties which can be shipped anywhere in the United States, with the exception of California.

• Grafted paw paw trees will need two different varieties for proper pollination.

• For potted seedlings, you’ll need to plant two (they can be the same variety) for proper pollination.
• Watch for suckers which will come up at the base of the tree. Unless you want a stand of paw paw clones, cut these suckers back when they appear in the spring.

Photo: Miller Nurseries

Paw Paw Resources:

• PAWPAW Fruit Facts
• Kentucky State University - Pawpaw Information WebsiteIncludes recipes for the American paw paw fruit
• The Native American Paw Paw Tree
• Welcome to MillerNurseries.comMiller Nurseries brings you one of the largest selections of fruit and nut trees, berries, grapes and much more.