Dragon fruit is a subtropical fruit that can be grown in the ground or in pots. To ensure good growth for potted dragon fruit, proper management is essential. Here are some tips on how to manage potted dragon fruit plants.
Dragon Fruit Potted Plant Management Tips
1. Removing Side Shoots
Within the first year of planting dragon fruit seedlings, they will quickly sprout side shoots once established. These side shoots should be removed promptly. The purpose of removing the shoots is to reduce nutrient consumption during the growth process, allowing nutrients to be used for root and main stem growth. Removing new shoots helps the root system become more developed and the main stem thicker and sturdier, laying a good foundation for future flowering and fruiting.
2. Adequate Sunlight
When growing dragon fruit in pots, ensure they receive ample sunlight. Additionally, supplement with nitrogen-rich fertilizer every 15 days, combined with multi-element compound fertilizer. This helps the root system grow quickly and robustly.
3. Repotting
Dragon fruit has a shallow yet extensive root system with many aerial roots. Therefore, deep and small pots are not suitable. Use larger shallow pots instead. The soil for potted dragon fruit should be mixed with well-draining materials like river sand or cinders.
4. Cultivating Side Shoots
Once the main stem of the dragon fruit plant is sufficiently thick and long, approximately 100-150 cm, pinch off the tip to encourage the growth of new side shoots. Since the plant is small and nutrients are limited in a pot, retain only one new side shoot in the first year.
5. Providing Support
Dragon fruit is a climbing plant and needs support once it reaches a certain height. Provide a trellis or support structure for the plant to hang down, forming drooping branches.
6. Fertilizing
When the branches of the dragon fruit turn from bright green to dark green, it indicates they are becoming woody and will soon flower. To accelerate reproductive growth, start using phosphorus and potassium-rich fertilizers once or twice a month. Ensure sufficient sunlight and a warm environment, ideally around 20°C.
7. Pollination
Some varieties of dragon fruit can self-pollinate, but others, like the common red-fleshed dragon fruit, cannot and require manual pollination. Since dragon fruit flowers open at night, pollinate them as soon as they open. At this time, the pollen is fresh and has not dried out, making pollination more effective. Use a small brush to transfer pollen to the stigma. Once the flower falls and the base begins to swell, it indicates successful pollination.
These are the tips for managing potted dragon fruit plants. Dragon fruit is relatively easy to grow in pots. With proper management, you can enjoy more and better-quality fruit.
