Winter Care of the Dragon Fruit Plant

Dragon fruit, or pitaya, grows on a cactus plant. Unlike other cacti, pitaya grows as a climbing vine along a trellis or support system. Dragon fruit is not a cold hardy plant and grows best in areas with mild winters where temperatures rarely drop below freezing. They prefer temperatures between 65 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit, with temperatures over 100 or below 31 eventually causing damage to the cactus. With proper winter care and preparation, your pitaya cactus can survive mild frosts undamaged.

Mulch
Stakes
Burlap

Instructions

- 1
  Spread a 2- to 3-inch layer of mulch over the soil and around the base of the dragon fruit plant in late fall as temperatures begin to cool. Leave a space between the cactus stem and the mulch layer so they do not touch. The mulch helps insulate the soil and protects the roots from mild frosts.
- 2
  Water the dragon fruit throughout winter when the soil begins to dry but only when temperatures are above freezing. Stop irrigation in spring once the temperatures begin to warm, as lack of water forces the dragon fruit to bloom.
- 3
  Erect a wind barrier on the windy side of the dragon fruit in areas with strong winter winds. Cold winds can dry out the plant or cause freeze damage. Stretch a length of burlap between two stakes to make a quick barrier.

The Habitat of a Cactus

How Do I Care for a Cylindrica Plant?

Growing Cactus