Dragon Fruit Plant – Pitaya/Pitahaya : Nursery Nisarga

Dragon fruit

Dragon fruit, also called pitaya or pitahaya, is the vibrant-coloured and sweet-tasting fruit of some cactus plants. It is relatively easy to grow, particularly for those in tropical or subtropical locations where maintenance is minimal. It can also be container-grown for those in frost-prone regions.

Fruit

Dragon fruits are in no hurry to ripen, with maturing times ranging from 45 to 150 days. The fruits have scales on their outer shells, and the flesh is custardlike and pleasant. Small black seeds dot the inside of the flesh. Selenicereus fruits are yellow with white flesh. Hylocereus is generally a hot pink or red color with white or pink flesh. Dragon fruits can grow very large, weighing up to 2 pounds at full maturity. Fruits with pink flesh tend to be sweeter than those with white flesh, regardless of the variety.

Climate

Like most cactus species, the dragon fruit prefers very warm conditions and cannot survive below 28 degrees Fahrenheit. It performs well in USDA zones 10 and 11 but may need to be protected from frost in zone 9. While they enjoy full sun, they can get sunburned and need occasional shade, making it best to plant them where they will be shaded by other structures or plants for a small portion of the day. They enjoy well-drained soil high in organic materials and have an affinity for soil containing saline.

Fertilizer

To ensure that the dragon fruit is growing properly, give it some fertilizer every month during the active growing season. During the cold winter months, you will want to stop feeding your plant for a few months.

Soil Requirements 

This plant is able to grow in any soil that is well-draining, but it prefers to grow in soil that is slightly acidic with a pH level that is between six and seven. Sandy soil is the best option for this plant; if it is not available, just ensure that it is a well-draining soil.