Rodney - I've had OODLES of trouble with the Solo too, lost at least 6 - 8 plants the last few years and finally gave up on them, but did find success with the Mexican Papaya, however, their flavour ranges from tolerable to pretty good, and I think the Solo has a tastier reputation so GOOD LUCK to you....and let me tell you - the ripening of the little fruit will probably not happen till next spring! (unless the solo operates different than the Mexican as far as ripening in our climate, everything slows down radically in the winter)

Keep us posted...

Mwoof

Have you thought of laying plastic sheeting around the base of the plant to shed rain water away? With mulch underneath it would also help keep the base of the plant warmer and reduce the risk of rot.