ATWOOD

About the Variety: Atwood is a Kentucky-selected pawpaw variety known for large fruit size and good flavor. It ripens relatively early in the pawpaw season and has gained recognition for consistent production. Atwood represents selection work in the central Appalachian region where pawpaws are native and culturally significant. The variety offers another option for diverse pawpaw orchards.

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Fruit Description: Large pawpaw fruits (typically 6-10 oz) with greenish-yellow skin. Flesh is yellow to orange, smooth, and custard-like with good tropical flavor. Quality is reliable and appealing, though perhaps not quite as complex as varieties like NC-1. Seeds are moderate in number. Overall a solid, dependable pawpaw variety.

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Harvest Window for Cincinnati/Southern Ohio: Early to Mid-September (typically September 5-20)

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Ripeness Indicators:

• Softens when ripe

• Skin color shifts toward yellow

• Sweet aroma develops

• May drop when fully ripe

• Brief peak window (1-2 days)

• Can pick slightly firm and ripen off tree

• Earlier ripening helps start pawpaw season

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Disease Resistance:

• Excellent - native species with natural resistance

• Kentucky genetics adapted to Appalachian conditions

• Low maintenance requirements

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Best Uses:

• Fresh eating: Good for eating fresh

• Freezing: Excellent for freezing as pulp

• Baking: Good for all baking applications

• Ice cream/smoothies: Makes good frozen desserts

• Storage: Fresh fruit lasts 2-3 days; frozen pulp lasts 6+ months

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How to Share This Fruit: Atwood's earlier ripening makes it perfect for "pawpaw season opener" events in early September. Use Atwood to build excitement and momentum at the beginning of pawpaw season before peak varieties arrive. The Kentucky/Appalachian origins provide opportunity to discuss regional fruit culture and the historical importance of pawpaws in Appalachian communities. Organize "cultural heritage" programs exploring how pawpaws have been used traditionally. The dependable production makes Atwood suitable for introduction events where reliability matters for planning. Consider sequential harvest programs starting with Atwood and continuing through later varieties. Perfect for building annual traditions around pawpaw season kickoff.