Latest Technical Methods Tutorial for Dragon Fruit Field Management
Dragon fruit is a tropical fruit that can be planted year-round in tropical climates, but in our country it is best to plant it in spring. The temperature for its growth must be at least above 18 degrees, and the maximum temperature must not exceed 40 degrees, otherwise it will be scorched. Now dragon fruit is grown in many places in our country. So today we will mainly learn about the field management techniques for dragon fruit.
1. Planting
Dragon fruit is generally propagated mainly by cuttings, so when we carry out cuttings we usually plant them at a reasonable density. However, we need to pay attention to checking the survival of the dragon fruit seedlings in the field, replanting in time to ensure a full stand of seedlings in the field, and finally carrying out permanent planting.
2. Fertilizer and Water
For fertilizing dragon fruit, we need to strictly follow the principle of applying thin fertilizer frequently. After the dragon fruit is planted, nitrogen fertilizer, phosphorus fertilizer and potassium fertilizer should be applied reasonably, with heavy application of organic fertilizer. Finally, when the dragon fruit is flowering and fruiting, potassium fertilizer and magnesium fertilizer should be reasonably applied as a top dressing. This can help the dragon fruit accumulate sugar more quickly and promote its growth. Throughout the entire growth period of dragon fruit, a certain level of humidity needs to be maintained in the field. The air humidity should be at least around 80 percent. During relatively dry weather, water once every three to four days, and during rainy periods, pay attention to drainage.
3. Pinching
In order to increase the fruiting capacity of dragon fruit, when the main stems of the dragon fruit grow to about 1.5 m, we need to pinch off the growing tips. This can promote the growth of side branches. When the side branches of the dragon fruit reach a certain level, the growth of the dragon fruit plant needs to be controlled; otherwise, nutrients cannot be supplied adequately, and it will also affect the yield of the dragon fruit.
4. Weeding
Dragon fruit is a shallow-rooted plant, so extra care must be taken when weeding to avoid damaging the roots of the dragon fruit. When there are relatively few weeds, weeds can only be pulled by hand. However, when there are many weeds in the field and the planting area is relatively large, we will have a dedicated mower and regularly mow the field. The cut grass can also be used as fertilizer for the dragon fruit to promote its growth.
5. Pruning
When dragon fruit is pinched, many side branches may grow, making the plants appear relatively dense and unable to carry out sufficient photosynthesis. At the same time, the ventilation in the field will also weaken, which will still affect the yield and quality of the dragon fruit. To prevent the branches from becoming too dense, we need to reasonably prune the branches and leaves, cutting off some old branches, diseased branches and weak branches.
6. Trellising
The branches of dragon fruit cannot bear such a large weight, so when the dragon fruit grows to about 1.5 m or before the dragon fruit begins to flower and fruit, we need to build some supports around it. This can support the growth of the dragon fruit so that its branches will not break. At the same time, this can also ensure maximum nutrient supply, thereby increasing the yield of the dragon fruit.
7. Disease Prevention
Generally, when field management is handled relatively well, dragon fruit will basically not develop diseases. However, during the seedling stage of dragon fruit, there can still be damage from pests such as ants and snails. At this time, we can use insecticides for prevention and control. But if field management is not handled properly, there will also be many diseases, such as gray mold and soft rot. For specific situations, you can refer to the common pest and disease control methods for dragon fruit.