How to Grow Red-Fleshed Dragon Fruit: Planting Methods and Key Techniques

Red-fleshed dragon fruit is not only bright red on the outside, but its flesh inside is a brilliant red as well. It tastes sweet and is widely loved by people. How is red-fleshed dragon fruit grown?

1. Red-fleshed dragon fruit is a tropical fruit that likes warmth and is not suited to growing in low-temperature environments. It needs to be planted in a place with plenty of sunlight and an ample water supply but without waterlogging. The soil of the chosen planting site must be sufficiently permeable and rich in organic humus. Because red-fleshed dragon fruit is a climbing plant, trellises must be set up promptly after the site is chosen. The trellis height must not be less than 1.4 m, and a trellis must be set up around every planting hole. The height can be adjusted and increased appropriately according to the plant's growth.

2. Before planting out, apply sufficient base fertilizer to the soil. A hole application method can be used, applying about 6-8 kg of decomposed farmyard manure per planting hole, together 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. Once the raised portion has settled, begin planting out. Planting out should be done before winter, and the most suitable time is around Qingming. Pay attention to the planting depth: it must not be too deep or too shallow. After planting out, water thoroughly in time to settle the roots, then cover appropriately with grass or straw to improve water and fertilizer retention.

3. After successful planting out, keep the soil in a moist state and topdress in time, but pay attention to the amount when topdressing. Do not over-fertilize; apply more frequently in small amounts. When the new shoots of the seedlings reach about 18-22 cm, topdress with farmyard manure in time to promote the greening of the leaves. Carry out field management well according to the plant's growth; during the early growth stage, topdress at least once every month. When autumn arrives, the plant's fruit gradually ripens and growth slows down, so fertilizer and water supply can be reduced or stopped at this time. Red-fleshed dragon fruit likes moisture but is not tolerant of waterlogging. When watering, ensure the soil stays moist while avoiding standing water. Pay attention to drainage during the rainy season to prevent waterlogging damage.

4. Red-fleshed dragon fruit has strong disease resistance and a low incidence rate, but it can suffer from certain pest damage. Therefore, during cultivation we must strengthen pest and disease control. Control should begin after planting out, spraying pesticide at least once a month to suppress pest and disease activity. Apply an appropriate amount of lime at the base of the plant. If damaged branches are found, promptly prune out the affected parts. Then protect the cut surfaces well to prevent infection, and take the pruned branches out of the orchard for proper disposal.

Growing red-fleshed dragon fruit is relatively simple; the main task is doing a good job of field management in the later stages.