Growing Dragon Fruit cactus can be a rewarding and comparatively low - maintenance horticulture experience , especially in tropical or subtropic region . However , it does require some specific care and care to ensure successful emergence . In this answer , I will provide you with a detailed guide on how to grow Dragon Fruit cactus and share some personal experience and tips along the direction .
1 . Climate and Location : Dragon Fruit cactus thrives in warm and dry climates , making it well - suited for tropic and semitropic regions . It prefers temperatures between 65 - 90 ° F ( 18 - 32 ° C ) and is not frost - tolerant . If you live in a stale mood , you may still grow Dragon Fruit cactus indoors or in a nursery .
2 . Sunlight : Dragon Fruit cactus is a sun - loving plant and requires at least six time of day of direct sunlight each day for optimal growth . When choosing a emplacement , verify it receives plentiful sunlight and is protect from strong winds .
3 . Soil : Well - draining ground is crucial for Dragon Fruit cactus as it is susceptible to root rot if the soil becomes waterlogged . A arenaceous or loamy filth mix with near drainage is ideal . you’re able to also create a raised bed or mound to amend drainage if your stain is heavy or clayey .
4 . Watering : Dragon Fruit cactus is a drought - tolerant plant but still requires veritable watering , specially during the grow season . Water deeply and good , allow the grime to dry out between watering . Overwatering can lead to root putrefaction , so it ’s authoritative to strickle a counterweight and avoid waterlogging the soil .
5 . Fertilizer : Dragon Fruit cactus is a light feeder and does n’t want heavy fertilization . expend a balanced , slow - release plant food or organic compost in give and early summer to provide the necessary nutrient . Avoid excessive N , as it can promote excessive vegetative growth at the expense of yield production .
6 . Support and Pruning : Dragon Fruit cactus is a climb vine that postulate livelihood to farm vertically . you may ply a treillage , fencing , or other structures for the plant to climb on . even pruning is all important to boost branching and increase fruit production . Remove any dead or diseased branch and trim back unreasonable development to keep the plant in shape .
7 . pollenation : Dragon Fruit cactus flowers are usually pollinated by nocturnal creature like bat and moth . However , it is possible to pass - pollinate the flush using a small brushwood or cotton fiber mop . lightly transplant pollen from one flower to another to increase the probability of fruit set .
8 . Harvesting : Dragon Fruit cactus typically takes 4 - 6 week for the yield to ripen after inflorescence . The fruit should be harvested when the skin plough bright pinkish or cerise and gives somewhat to easy pressure . thin the yield from the plant using a sharp knife or pruning shears .
Personal Experience : I have had the delight of growing Dragon Fruit cactus in my garden , and it has been a delightful experience . The vines grew vigorously , and the beautiful pinkish blossom flower at night , filling the air with a sweet fragrance . The yield , with its vivacious color and unequalled flavor , was a delicacy to harvest time and revel . With proper care and attention to its specific needs , the Dragon Fruit cactus proved to be a comparatively low - criminal maintenance industrial plant that add a touch of exotic stunner to my garden .
To summarize , while Dragon Fruit cactus may expect some specific care and attention , it is not overly unmanageable to grow , especially in tropic or semitropic regions . With the proper climate , sunlight , well - run out grunge , and regular tearing , you’re able to enjoy the sweetheart of its climb vine and the delectable fruits it produces . So , do n’t hesitate to give it a try and live the joy of growing your own Dragon Fruit cactus .
Caroline Bates
