How to Grow Hylocereus

Hylocereus consists of about 20 species of cacti that grow in various geographical locations, including Central America, northern South America, southernmost Florida and the West Indies. They usually have three prominent ribs and few to no spines. They produce the largest flowers in the cactus family, sometimes reaching a length longer than 12 inches. Hylocereus plants can easily grow in sandy soil where they get plenty of light.

Garden shears
Fungicide
Plant pot
Commercial cactus potting mix
Trellis or support
Balanced water-soluble fertilizer

Instructions

- 1
  Take a cutting from a healthy, mature hylocereus. Use pruning shears to make a slanted cut at the base of a stem that measures 6 to 15 inches long.
- 2
  Apply a fungicide to the cutting and leave it to dry and heal for seven to eight days in a dry, shady area.
- 3
  Fill a pot with a commercial potting mix designed for growing cacti. Insert the cutting into the potting mix so half of it is buried.
- 4
  Place the pot in a bright area, ideally a location that gets plenty of direct sunlight.
- 5
  Water the plant whenever the soil begins to dry. Dump out any water that accumulates in the saucer or drip tray beneath the pot.
- 6
  Install a sturdy trellis in the pot if your hylocereus begins to get too floppy. Train the branches over the trellis to help support the heavy flowers and fruit that may develop.
- 7
  Fertilize the hylocereus with a water-soluble balanced fertilizer on a monthly basis during the growing season of spring and summer.

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