How to Plant Dragon Fruit Tree in India

The dragon fruit tree, also known as Pitaya, is a tropical fruit that is gaining popularity in India due to its nutritional value and exotic appearance. It is a climbing cactus and needs space to grow, making it an ideal choice for planting in a backyard or small farm. This article will explain how to plant a dragon fruit tree in India, from selecting the right location to harvesting your first fruit.

Choose the Right Variety

There are different varieties of dragon fruit available, and it is crucial to choose the right one, especially when planting in India. Select a variety that grows well in the region where you want to plant it. The three main varieties of dragon fruit are:

Hylocereus undatus (white flesh with pink skin)

Hylocereus costaricensis (red flesh with red skin)

Selenicereus megalanthus (yellow flesh with pink skin)

Ensure that you purchase your dragon fruit seedlings from a reliable source to prevent spreading of diseases.

Choose the Right Location

The dragon fruit tree requires full sunlight, so select a location where it will receive at least six hours of direct sunlight. It is sensitive to the cold and frost, so ensure that it is planted in an area with a temperature range of 15-35 degrees Celsius throughout the year. The soil should be well-drained, organic, and have a pH level of 6-7.

Prepare the Soil

It is essential to prepare the soil before planting the dragon fruit tree. Start by digging a hole that is 60cm wide and 60cm deep. Mix organic compost, manure, and sand in equal proportions in the hole. This will create a well-draining soil mixture that will provide nutrients to the plant.

Plant the Dragon Fruit Tree

After the soil preparation, plant the dragon fruit tree. Hold the seedling gently and position it vertically in the center of the hole. Fill the hole with the soil mixture, ensuring that the top of the soil is levelled with the top of the seedling's roots. Use stakes to support the seedling and protect it from wind damage. Leave a gap of around 4 meters between the seedlings to provide sufficient space for growing.

Water the Dragon Fruit Tree

The dragon fruit tree requires regular watering for the first few months after planting. Water it once a week and ensure that the soil is moist. Reduce watering during the winter months. The plant can tolerate droughts, but under-watering can affect its growth and fruit production.

Fertilize the Dragon Fruit Tree

The dragon fruit tree requires regular fertilization to stimulate its growth and fruit production. Use an organic fertilizer rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium every three months during the growing season. You can also add bone meal, fish emulsion, or compost to the soil for additional nutrients.

Harvest the Dragon Fruit

The dragon fruit tree takes about three years to produce its first fruit. However, once it starts bearing fruit, it can produce between two to three crops a year. The fruit is ready for harvest when the skin turns bright and glossy, and it is slightly soft to the touch. Harvest it by twisting it gently to remove it from the stem. You can store it in the fridge for up to five days before consuming.

In Conclusion

Planting a dragon fruit tree in India is easy and rewarding. With proper soil preparation, regular watering, and fertilization, it can grow and produce fruit for years to come. Choose the right variety, location, and take good care of the plant, and you can enjoy the exotic and nutritious fruit right from your backyard.