Micronutrient Management in Papaya Cultivation

Papaya (Carica papaya L.) is a highly nutrient-demanding fruit crop. While macronutrients (N, P, K) form the base of nutrition, micronutrients play a critical role in ensuring vigorous growth, proper flowering, fruit set, size, sweetness, and disease resistance. Deficiency or imbalance of micronutrients leads to poor yield and quality.

1. Importance of Micronutrients in Papaya

- Enhance enzyme activity and metabolic functions.

- Regulate chlorophyll formation and photosynthesis.

- Promote flowering and fruit set.

- Improve fruit quality – sweetness, color, texture, shelf life.

- Increase disease resistance against fungal and viral attacks.

2. Key Micronutrients in Papaya & Their Functions

(a) Zinc (Zn)