In papaya, the seeds including the outermost layer, a gelatinous sarcotesta have inhibitors that prevent germination while contained in the fruit or prematurely after release (Ellis et al. 1958 Tseng 1992). Seeds freshly harvested from the fruits have very low and variable germination. the removal of the sarcotesta considerably increases germination in the fresh undried seeds. seed treatment by drying and cool storage and soaking prior to planting can promote viability and the rate and uniformity of germination. Soaking with several changes of water also greatly increases germination (Paz and Vasquez-Yanes 1998).