Detailed Explanation of Red-Fleshed Dragon Fruit Planting Techniques and Management Key Points
Red-fleshed dragon fruit is a type of dragon fruit with red flesh, and its taste is much better than that of white-fleshed dragon fruit, so its price is also a bit higher, but many people like to buy it to eat, and it is currently being planted in many regions, so what are the planting techniques for red-fleshed dragon fruit?
1. Site selection and trellis building
Red-fleshed dragon fruit is a tropical fruit, so it prefers warmth and is not suitable for growing in low-temperature environments. It needs to be planted in a place with sufficient sunlight and an adequate water source but without waterlogging. In addition, the soil must be sufficiently permeable and rich in organic humus, which helps promote the growth of red-fleshed dragon fruit. Because red-fleshed dragon fruit is a climbing plant, trellises must be built in time after the site is selected. The trellis height must not be less than 1.4 m, trellises must be built around each planting hole, and the height should also be appropriately increased according to the growth of the plants to facilitate later management and harvesting.
2. Timely field planting
Before field planting, sufficient base fertilizer should first be applied to the soil. A hole application method can be used, applying about 6-8 kg of decomposed farmyard manure per planting hole, along with an appropriate amount of trace elements. Mix the soil and fertilizer thoroughly and evenly, then cover with fine soil about 8 cm above the ground. Begin field planting after the raised part has settled. The planting time should not be in a low-temperature environment in winter. The most suitable period is around Qingming Festival. Pay attention to the planting depth. It must not be too high or too shallow. After planting, water thoroughly with root-setting water in time, then appropriately cover with grass material to improve water and fertilizer retention.
3. Fertilizer and water management
After successful field planting, the soil should be kept moist and fertilizer should be applied in a timely manner, but the amount used when topdressing should be noted. Do not apply excessive fertilizer; mainly apply more frequently in small amounts. When the new shoots of the seedlings grow to about 18-22 cm, apply farmyard manure in time to promote the greening of the leaves. Then carry out management work according to the growth of the plants. In the early growth stage, fertilizer should be applied at least once a month. After autumn arrives, the plant fruits gradually mature and the growth rate slows down, so fertilizer and water application can then be reduced or stopped. Red-fleshed dragon fruit likes moisture and is not tolerant of waterlogging, so during planting, attention should be paid to ensuring both sufficient water and no waterlogging damage.
4. Pest and disease control
Red-fleshed dragon fruit has strong disease resistance and a low incidence rate, but it will suffer from the harm of some insect pests. Therefore, during the planting process, we should strengthen pest and disease control. After field planting, attention should be paid to control, and insecticide should be sprayed at least once a month to suppress pest activity. Prevent pests from gnawing on the plants and affecting plant growth. In addition, an appropriate amount of lime should be sprayed at the base of the plants. If damaged branches are found, the damaged parts should be cut off in time. Then protect the cut openings to prevent infection, and take the cut branches out of the orchard for proper disposal.