Propagation and Layout 77
medium should be levelled with the soil surface. The young papaya plants should be
planted in an upright position as far as possible. If not planted in this position, the
tree will continue its slanting growth habit for the rest of its lifespan. The base of
the stem of the adult tree will then lie on the ground and the upper two-thirds of the
stem will form a flattened C shape, with the growing tip pointing straight upwards.
As the tree ages, that is, grows older, its weight will cause larger part of the stem to
lie on the ground, restricting movement in between rows. Rows need to be kept clear
to facilitate weed control and harvesting. A young plant lying on its side is also more
susceptible to fungal diseases, bird damage and sunburn.
5.10 After Care and Gap Filling
New transplanted seedlings should be taken care to protect against frost, water lodg-
ing, rainfall and pests. In subtropical India where winters are very cool, seedlings
should be protected with polythene bags and small thatches. Some extra seedlings
are kept in reserve for gap filling as per needs. The mechanical and chemical dam-
age of young seedlings is frequently observed during weed management by cultural
operations and spray of herbicides.