Dragon Fruit Growth

Growing Climate

• Dragon fruit grow in tropical and subtropical zones 10 and 11. They survive light freezes but are harmed by sustained freezing temperatures. They need full sun but can be burned by excessive sun in low humidity climates or high altitudes. Dragon fruit are salt tolerant and prefer well-drained fertile soil.

Fertilizer for Healthy Growth

• Begin fertilizing dragon fruit a month after planting. Give small plants 4 oz. of a balanced fertilizer containing magnesium every other month. Increase the amount of fertilizer as the plant grows, up to 8 oz. for a mature plant. The addition of 5 lbs of composted manure in the spring and fall supplies additional nutrients to the soil.

Irrigation for Healthy Growth

• Dragon fruit are cactus and can withstand mild drought conditions, but they need a consistent water supply during fruiting. A dry period is necessary to encourage flowering, but approximately 1/2 inch of water twice a week is needed once fruit set. Standing water or soggy soil leads to rotting roots and bacterial diseases.

Fruit Growth

• Dragon fruit normally flower and fruit in the summer, between June and October. The fruit develop quickly and are ready to harvest within 30 days of setting. They do not undergo a traditional ripening; instead, the fruit continue to grow and sweeten for another 20 days. An average fruit weighs approximately 12 oz. at 30 days and over 1 lb. at 50 days.

Mature Size

• The dragon fruit cactus grows branches that are over 20 feet in length and together, they can weigh hundreds of pounds. The plant requires support to remain upright. Left alone, it will sprawl across the ground, forming a tangle of branches that eventually crowd out new growth. The flowers open at night to bell shape that is up to 9 inches wide and 12 inches long. A healthy plant in ideal conditions can produce up to 220 pounds of fruit each year.