Carica Papaya Dwarf Red Lady 140 Mm Pot Size

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Carica papaya ‘Dwarf Red Lady’ – Compact Tropical Papaya Tree

Carica papaya ‘Red Lady’ is a high-yielding, dwarf papaya variety prized for its sweet red-orange flesh, compact size, and early fruiting — ideal for small gardens, patios, balconies, or pots. It’s one of the most popular papayas among home growers due to its easy care, self-fertile flowers, and delicious flavor. 

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Features & Characteristics

• Botanical Name: Carica papaya ‘Red Lady’ (F1 hybrid)  
• Growth Habit: Semi-dwarf upright tree with large palmate leaves  
• Height & Spread:
  
• Typically 2–3 m (6–10 ft) tall outdoors depending on conditions, often smaller in containers.  
• Spread: ~1.5–2 m (4–6 ft) wide.  
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• Fruit: Large oblong papayas, 5–7+ inches (1.5–3+ lb / ~0.7–1.4 kg).  
• Flesh Color: Vibrant deep orange-red flesh — rich and visually striking.  
• Flavor: Sweet, juicy, and aromatic with melon-like tropical complexity.  
• Pollination: Self-fertile hermaphrodite flowers — one plant will fruit without needing a mate.  
• Fruit Timing: Begins fruiting early — often within 7–12 months of planting.  

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How to Grow in a Pot (Container Growing)

Dwarf Red Lady is excellent for container growing thanks to its compact size and fast growth. 

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Pot & Soil

• Pot Size: Start with a large container (≥ 15–25+ gallons / 60–90+ L) for best root development.  
• Soil: Use a light, well-draining mix (coco coir or peat + perlite/sand) with organic matter.  
• Drainage: Ensure drainage holes — papaya roots dislike standing water.  

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Light & Position

• Sun: Full sun (6–8+ hours daily) for vigorous growth and fruiting.  
• Placement: Patio, balcony, or greenhouse spots with strong light exposure are best.

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Watering

• Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
• Water deeply when the top soil starts to dry — increase frequency in heat.  

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Feeding & Care

• Fertilizer: Apply a balanced organic fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during the growing season.  
• Mulch: Add mulch to retain moisture but keep it clear of the trunk.  
• Pruning: Not usually required, but topping can control height if needed.  

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Climate & Protection

• Best grown outdoors in warm-temperate to tropical climates (USDA zones ~9–11).  
• Sensitive to frost — bring containers indoors or protect plants below ~0 °C.  

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Taste & Uses

• Flavor Profile: Sweet and juicy with a tropical melon-like taste — often sweeter than standard yellow-fleshed varieties.  
• Texture: Soft, smooth, and aromatic once ripe — perfect for eating fresh.
• Uses:
  
• Fresh fruit and fruit salads
• Smoothies and desserts
• Juicing
• Papaya seeds can be dried and used as a peppery spice (optional)
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Care Instructions

Daily / Weekly

✔ Keep in full sun

✔ Check soil moisture — water deeply when needed

Monthly

✔ Fertilize with balanced plant food

✔ Remove dead/damaged leaves

Seasonal

✔ Protect from cold and frost

✔ Repot into larger container if roots become crowded