How to Grow a Dragon Fruit Cactus

Dragon fruit, also known as strawberry pears or pitaya, are a common sight in Southeast Asian markets and now often are found in other regions either as an import or a locally grown crop. The fruit comes from a cactus and these plants are easy enough to grow either for ornamental value or for their fruit. In hot climates, you can grow dragon fruit cacti outside, and in colder areas, they thrive inside. However they need regular pruning indoors since they can grow to more than 20 feet high. Dragon fruit cacti are usually grown from cuttings, although you can grow them from seeds if you prefer.

Knife
Potting compost
Perlite or sand
Large plant pot
Gardening scissors
Plant climbing frame
Wire ties
Spade
Fertilizer

Instructions

- 1
  Take a 12-inch cutting from an established dragon fruit cactus with the knife. Cut at an angle along a major joint. Alternatively, wash the pulp off dragon fruit seeds.
- 2
  Leave the cutting to dry for a week.
- 3
  Mix together approximately 2/3 potting compost with 1/3 perlite or sand to create a well-draining soil.
- 4
  Fill the pot with the mixture and water until moist.
- 5
  Plant the cutting or the seeds in the pot. Push the cutting about 2 inches into the soil. Sow seeds at the same depth.
- 6
  Position the pot in a warm, sunny location outside or inside.
- 7
  Water the cactus regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between each watering.
- 8
  Plant outside when you see the signs of significant growth, usually after a few months, or keep in the pot.
- 9
  Position the climbing frame beside the cactus.
- 10
  Train the cactus up the frame using the wire ties.
- 11
  Fertilize every couple of months for at least the first year.
- 12
  Regular pruning encourages more fruit production and keeps the cactus to a manageable size if you want it as a house or conservatory plant.

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