Both media and washing significantly (P < 0.05) affected the germination of Papaya seeds. There was no significant difference between washed and washed seeds in topsoil while in sand, washed seeds were superior to unwashed seeds in terms of germination percent. Washing seeds before sowing improved germination in sand but not in topsoil. The presence of the gelatinous material (sarcotesta) reduced the average percent germination. Washing the seeds resulted in increased germination. There is a possible inhibiting effect of the sarcotesta in relation to the oxygen available during germination resulting from continuous washing (Black and Wareing, 1959). It appears that the differences between the physical properties of sand and topsoil in terms frequency of watering needed i.e. topsoil needs frequent watering. It is likely that the washed seeds also need soaking to promote more germination as was carried out in the sand. Sand also has more aeration permitting more oxygen, which promoted more germination. The higher germination resulting from soaking (as in the sand) and washing in the absence of sarcotesta may indicate that the sarcotesta acts as a barrier to the movement of the water-soluble inhibitor out of the seed coat. These results suggest the presence in the seed coat of a leachable inhibitor, which is held against