What are the latest cultivation methods for red-fleshed dragon fruit?
Red-fleshed dragon fruit (Hylocereus polyrhizus) is a climbing fruit belonging to the Cactaceae family. It is still in its early stages in China and is a typical tropical fruit. Red-fleshed dragon fruit has very high nutritional value and is beneficial to human health. Now the market for red-fleshed dragon fruit in China is gradually expanding, and more and more people are starting to grow it on a large scale. So how should red-fleshed dragon fruit be cultivated? Today, the editor brings you the cultivation methods for red-fleshed dragon fruit. Let's take a look!
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. The soil must also 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 should be set up around each planting hole, and the height should be appropriately increased according to the growth of the plants to facilitate later management and harvesting.
2. Timely planting
Before planting, sufficient base fertilizer should be applied to the soil. The 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, then cover with fine soil about 8 cm above the ground. When the raised portion settles, begin planting. The planting time should not be in the low-temperature environment of winter. The most suitable period is around Qingming Festival. Pay attention to the planting depth. It should not be too deep or too shallow. After planting, water thoroughly in time to set the roots, then appropriately cover with grass material to improve water and fertilizer retention.
3. Fertilizer and water management
After successful planting, ensure the soil remains moist and apply topdressing in time, but pay attention to the amount when applying topdressing. Do not apply excessive fertilizer; mainly apply more frequently and in small amounts. When the new shoots of the seedlings grow to about 18-22 cm, apply farmyard manure in time to promote the leaves turning green. Then carry out management work according to the growth of the plants. In the early stage of growth, apply fertilizer at least once a month. After entering autumn, the fruits gradually mature and the growth rate slows down. At this time, fertilizer and water application can be reduced or stopped. Red-fleshed dragon fruit likes moisture but is not tolerant of waterlogging, so during cultivation, care should be taken to ensure sufficient water without causing 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 insect pests. Therefore, during cultivation, we should strengthen pest and disease control. After planting, begin paying attention to prevention and control, and spray insecticide at least once a month to suppress pest activity. Prevent pests from gnawing on the plants and affecting plant growth. In addition, spray an appropriate amount of lime at the base of the plants. If damaged branches are found, promptly cut off the damaged parts. Then protect the cut surfaces to prevent infection, and take the cut branches out of the orchard for proper disposal.
The above is a brief introduction to the cultivation methods for red-fleshed dragon fruit. At present, the area planted with red-fleshed dragon fruit is still not very large. Because red-fleshed dragon fruit has certain environmental requirements, temperature alone limits many places from being able to grow it. However, friends with the conditions and a suitable environment can still consider it. That is all for today's introduction. This article is for reference only. If you want to learn more related information, please continue to follow us!