Two demonstration sessions on bagging papaya flowers were held on the 17th April 2025 and on the 24th April 2025 at Reduit CRS. Twenty Extension Officers/Senior Extension Officers and Assistant Research Scientists and 11 growers attended the sessions, respectively.
The objective of the demonstration was to showcase the proper technique for bagging papaya flowers, a crucial step in ensuring true-to-type fruit production for seed purposes. The process involved the following steps:
- Selection of a hermaphrodite plant that produces only hermaphrodite flowers, which have both male (stamens) and female (pistil) reproductive organs
- Selection of a mature hermaphrodite flower
- Removal of neighbouring flowers from the axil of same leaf
- Bagging of the flower
The importance of flower bagging was emphasized, particularly in maintaining genetic purity by preventing unwanted cross-pollination. This practice plays a vital role in producing high-quality, true-to-type seeds essential for reliable crop performance.
Additionally, focus was made on the choice of bagging material—participants were encouraged to use cloth bags made from durable, breathable fabric. Such material provides effective protection and can be reused, making the practice more sustainable and cost-effective.
3. Insertion of the bag
