Detailed Explanation of the Four Major Problems of Dragon Fruit Roots and Their Solutions

When growing dragon fruit, the roots are the foundation of the dragon fruit. If there is a problem with the root system, that is a big problem. Moreover, dragon fruit is a shallow-rooted crop with no taproot, and the water and nutrients it needs all come from root absorption. If the root absorption capacity is poor, the later yield and quality will not keep up. Now let's take a look at the common root problems of dragon fruit with the editor.

1. Root rot

The main cause of dragon fruit root rot is excessive soil moisture. For root rot caused by this reason, the frequency of watering should be controlled, drainage work should be done well during the rainy season, and some bacterial fertilizer should be used to loosen the soil and improve the rhizosphere environment. Another type is root rot caused by excessively high soil acidity. Organic fertilizer can be used to improve the soil and nourish the roots, and to adjust the soil pH.

2. Base rot

Base rot in seedlings occurs because the wound has not been air-dried or because planting was too deep. In this case, the rotted part can be trimmed off, and after the wound is air-dried, the root system can be cultivated again. For cuttings, it is enough to insert them only about 5 cm, because dragon fruit is a shallow-rooted crop and should not be planted too deep. If base rot occurs in fruit trees more than one year old, then it is caused by water accumulation in the root system. At this time, the rotted area needs to be scraped off, then sterilized, and then a mineral water bottle should be wrapped with mud to let it re-root.

3. Shriveled and wrinkled branches

There are two reasons for this situation. First, root rot affects the absorption of water and nutrients by the dragon fruit, making the plant shriveled. Second, the harm of root-knot nematodes, after parasitizing the root system, damages root function, causing the aboveground part of the dragon fruit to gradually weaken and turn yellow, ultimately affecting yield. If it is damage from root-knot nematodes, it is recommended to apply organic fertilizer to adjust the root soil structure and inhibit the occurrence of root-knot nematodes.

4. Root aging

This is mainly caused by improper fertilizer selection and use and unreasonable fertilizer combinations, which cause the fruit tree roots to become suberized and aged prematurely. Therefore, when fertilizing, it must be scientific and reasonable. At least twice a year, apply organic fertilizer to nourish the roots and adjust the soil, then supplement nutrients according to the different growth stages of the fruit tree. Phosphorus and potassium fertilizer can be applied to the roots to promote the sprouting of fine roots, and compound fertilizer, which is highly destructive to the soil, should be used as little as possible.

The above is an introduction to the four major problems of dragon fruit roots and their solutions. I hope it can help you. If you want to learn more related knowledge, please stay tuned to us.