Papaya plants grow in similar conditions as bananas, requiring bright light, humidity, heat, and plenty of fertilizer and water. Also, like the banana, it's an extremely fast-growing semi-woody plant with large leaves that are the very essence of the tropics. Though it's easier to grow this plant outdoors, growing it inside is certainly doable if you have enough space - this plant will need a large container and a very sunny window for vibrant growth. Papaya plants grown indoors grow so fast that they may reach the ceiling in a matter of months. For this reason, they are often pruned off at the top to keep them in check. Cut off the main stem to a couple of feet tall. The plant will send up several new shoots from the base of the plant. When these shoots are one to two feet tall, select the best one and trim off the others, including the original central stem. If you have moved a potted papaya plant outdoors for the summer, prune it back heavily before bringing it indoors for the cooler months. Plants and pots sold separately.
