In the picture above, you can see one of the weirdest looking fruits of all time although it tastes very bland quite like kiwi, it is considered a delicacy. It has various health benefits. With a delicate and creamy texture it is sometimes also called strawberry pear.
The other names of dragon fruit include Pitaya or Pitahaya and belong to cactus species. Dragon fruits are native to Mexico but you can it in your backyard or balcony also. Read this article to know how!
Dragon fruit Varieties:
There are different varieties of dragon fruit some have red flesh or white flesh.
Hylocereus undatus: White flesh with pink/red skin
Hylocereus Megalanthus: White flesh with yellow skin
Hylocereus costaricensis: Purple/ red flesh with pink/red skin
Dragon Fruit Pot specifications:
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The ideal size of the pot should be 15-24 inches in diameter and 10-12 inches in depth. Pots should have 2-3 drain holes. You can use plastic pots, clay pots, terracotta pots etc. However, clay pots should be used to maintain healthy growth of the plants as they keep the temperature of the plant.
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The Bigger the size of the pot, the more space is there for its roots to grow and hence, it is better for the growth of Dragon fruit.
Soil Requirements: The soil should be sandy and well drained. Dragon Fruits prefer soil with pH 7-8. Pick a sunny location for your dragon fruit plant. It should get at least 6-8 hours of sunlight.
Watering Requirements: Be sure not to over water your Dragon fruit; it will kill the plant. A light mist or a drip in the soil is sufficient for the plant.
Climatic requirements: Dragon fruits love to grow in a tropical climate can also be grown in sub tropical climates. Accept Freezing winters, dragon fruits can be planted in any season.
Fertilization: Cactuses in general don’t require a lot of maintenance. They are not heavy feeders and do not require a lot fertilization. You can apply an organic, low nitrogen fertilizer and apply them every month or less.
How to grow dragon fruits from cuttings?
Dragon fruit can be grown from the seeds in the fruit but it is easier to grow it from cuttings. Stems should be cut using a sharp knife. The length of the stem should be around 6-16 inches, from the plant that produces fruit. Be gentle with the roots of your cutting, while planting and try not to disturb them. Gentle loosening of the roots is enough.
How to know when your Dragon Fruits are ready for harvest?
The fruit should be in an oval shape and almost 10-15 cm long. It is best to harvest the fruit when the color changes to pink or red. The fruit is usually ready to harvest in 30 – 50 days after you have planted it.
Final Tips:
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Be very careful while watering your plants; it is the vital part!
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The pests that can affect dragon fruit are Aphids, Ants and other insects. You can use insecticides such as organic neem oil.
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Cactus is a vining plant therefore you will need to provide it some support otherwise it will sprawl along the ground until it finds a support to climb on.
