How to Grow Red-Fleshed Dragon Fruit? A Detailed Guide to the Planting Method
Red-fleshed dragon fruit is a tropical fruit that, in terms of nutritional value and taste, has greater economic value than white-fleshed dragon fruit. Many people have started growing it, and today we will introduce the planting method 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 ample sunlight and sufficient water sources but without waterlogging, and 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, after selecting the site you should build trellises in time. The trellis height must not be less than 1.4 m, and trellises should be built around each planting hole. The height should also be appropriately increased according to the plant's growth to facilitate later management and harvesting.
2. Timely planting
Before planting, apply sufficient base fertilizer to the soil. You can use the hole application method, applying about 6-8 kg of decomposed farmyard manure into each planting hole, combined with an appropriate amount of trace elements. Mix the soil and fertilizer thoroughly and evenly, then cover with fine soil to about 8 cm above the ground. When the raised part sinks, begin planting. Planting should not be done in winter under low-temperature conditions; the most suitable period is around Qingming Festival. Pay attention to the planting depth: it should 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 planting, keep the soil in a moist state and topdress in time. However, when topdressing, pay attention to the amount; do not apply excessive fertilizer. Mainly apply small amounts frequently. When the new shoots of the seedlings grow to about 18-22 cm, in order to promote the leaves turning green, apply farmyard manure in time, then carry out management work according to the plant's growth. In the early growth stage, topdress at least once a month. After entering autumn, the plant's fruits gradually mature and the growth rate slows, so fertilizer and water application can then be reduced or stopped. Red-fleshed dragon fruit likes moisture but is not tolerant of waterlogging, so when planting, make sure there is sufficient water while avoiding waterlogging damage.
4. Pest and disease control
Red-fleshed dragon fruit has strong disease resistance and a low incidence rate, but it can suffer from certain pest damage, so pest and disease control should be strengthened during cultivation. After planting, begin paying attention to control, spraying insecticide at least once a month to suppress pest activity and prevent pests from gnawing the plant and affecting its growth. Also spray an appropriate amount of lime at the base of the plant. If affected branches are found, promptly cut off the damaged parts, then protect the cut surfaces well to prevent infection, and take the cut branches out of the orchard for proper disposal.
The above is the planting method for red-fleshed dragon fruit. We hope it can help you!