How to grow Dragon Fruit

Where to plant

Pitaya grows in warm climates mostly free of frost and freezes, ideally around 65 to 77°F (18 to 25°C), and suffers above 100°F (38°C). It is a full sun plant, but stems can sunburn where light is intense and humidity low; UF/IFAS recommends about 30 percent shade for the first 3 to 4 months after planting. It tolerates wind and some salt, but needs well drained soil that never floods.

It grows well in South Florida and in warm spots in Central Florida, where established plants take a brief light frost. In Southern California, plant in a sunny spot, with afternoon shade inland, and cover young plants if frost threatens; in Northern California, plant in late spring in a sheltered spot or a pot. In North Florida, the Gulf South, Texas, the desert and further north, grow it in a large pot and move it under cover for winter. Hawaii suits it well.

Choosing a variety

There are many named varieties, with white flesh (Hylocereus undatus) or red to magenta flesh, and red or yellow skin. Several are self incompatible, so UF/IFAS advises planting two or three genetically different types for better fruit set and size. American Beauty (red flesh) and Physical Graffiti (productive and sweet) are sold by Florida nurseries.

How to plant

1. Put up the support first: a strong post with a frame on top for the stems to drape over, able to carry several hundred pounds of stems. UF/IFAS advises against wires, which can cut into the stems.
2. Plant a rooted cutting or potted plant at the base of the post, at the depth it grew. On sandy soil, dig a wide hole and mix in well decomposed compost.
3. Shade new plants about 30 percent for the first few months.
4. Tie the main stem to the post as it grows and remove side shoots until it reaches the top.
5. When the stem reaches the top, cut the tip to make it branch, and let the new branches hang over the frame.

Watering and feeding

Although a cactus, pitaya needs a fair amount of water. A drier spell in winter and early spring helps it flower, but once flowering starts in late spring, water regularly through harvest, as drought then reduces the crop. Avoid soggy soil, which brings stem and root rots, and do not let lawn sprinklers keep the soil wet.

Start feeding about a month after planting, with light, frequent applications of a balanced fertilizer containing magnesium in the first year, every couple of months, plus compost or manure around (not touching) the base. In alkaline soils, plants may need iron and other minor elements.

Pruning and care through the year

• Prune each year soon after harvest to thin the dense tangle of stems, letting in light and air, which reduces disease and encourages flowering.
• The flowers open at night and are pollinated by moths and bats. Hand pollinate in the evening or early morning by brushing pollen from one flower onto the stigma of a flower of a different variety.
• Keep grass and mowers 2 to 5 feet away from the base; stem injuries can cause dieback.
• Cover plants during long freezes.

Harvesting

In Florida, fruit ripens from about June to November. Pick only fully colored fruit, cutting the stalk with clippers flush to the fruit. Wear gloves for spiny types.

Ripe fruit keeps 4 to 5 days at room temperature or several weeks in a plastic bag in the fridge. Scoop out the flesh to eat fresh, or freeze the pulp for smoothies and desserts.

Growing in pots

Outside the warm regions, grow dragon fruit in a large, deep pot with a free draining cactus or citrus mix and a sturdy stake or small frame. Give it the sunniest spot, water regularly in summer, keep it drier in winter and move it under cover before frost.

Propagation and saving seed

Stem cuttings root easily. Cut segments 6 to 15 inches (15 to 38 cm) long, let them dry and heal for about a week in a dry, shady spot, then plant them in well drained soil or pots. Seedlings vary and can take up to 7 years to fruit.