And don't despair; your tree may sprout side shoots and live to produce more fruit. Many folks lop off trees that get too tall and let them regrow new branches that are easier to harvest.

Thanks for the help. I don't have any paper bags. Will a tied plastic bag work? Isn't the idea to keep the gasses in the bag to assist in the ripening?

I just wash fruits very well w/ plain water & scrubby sponge, then set them out on a counter @ room temp. to ripen. No bagging - I like to keep an eye on them. If they're streaked w/ orange, they will likely ripen just fine - not sure about green immature ones.

HTH

Yes, but a plastic bag also keeps in the moisture and the fruit will rot.

You could also try green papaya salad:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CLuaIj7w8lE

or one of the classic Thai recipes.

Ah. Thanks. I didn't think of that. I'll have to try that salad.

I don't grow papayas and I hope your tree will be ok. But I just want to say what an awesome name, Joel Hug!

Carol in Jacksonville

force-ripen by puting it next to something thats it ripening now