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Fruits

Dragonfruit (Or Pitaya)

Hylocereus undatus

Dragonfruit, also known as pitaya, is a tropical fruit that belongs to the cactus family. It is characterized by its vibrant pink or yellow skin and white or red flesh speckled with tiny black seeds. The fruit is not only visually appealing but also rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber, making it a popular choice for health-conscious consumers. Dragonfruit is often used in smoothies, salads, and desserts, and its cultivation is gaining importance due to its unique flavor and health benefits.

Calculate System for Dragonfruit (Or Pitaya)
400.00–600.00mm
Water Need
120 days
Season
30.00–60.00cm
Root Depth
25,000 kg/ha
Yield
20,000
Plants/ha

Growth Stages

Season: Mar – Aug (120 days)

Initial
Kc 0.400
30 days
Development
Kc 0.700
40 days
Mid-Season
Kc 1.000
60 days
Late
Kc 0.800
30 days

Dragonfruit is a climbing cactus that requires support structures for optimal growth. It can be grown in various climates but thrives in warm, humid conditions. There are several varieties, including Hylocereus undatus (white flesh), Hylocereus costaricensis (red flesh), and Hylocereus megalanthus (yellow skin).

Water Requirements

Season Total: 400.00600.00 mm
Water Stress Sensitivity: High
Salt Tolerance: Moderate
Water Productivity: 15.500 kg/m³

Recommended Methods

Drip Irrigation90.00%Fixed Sprinkler70.00%

Soil Compatibility

Optimal pH range: 6.0 – 7.5

Sandy Loam
AWC100.00mm/m
Drainagegood
Drainage: Well-drained soils preferred
Organic Matter: 2.00%
Soil should be rich in organic matter and well-drained to prevent root diseases. Soil amendments such as compost can enhance fertility and structure.

Climate Compatibility

Temperature range: 15.0°C – 30.0°C

Temperate Continental
ETo: 1.006.00 mm/day
Temp: -20.0°C – 30.0°C
Frost: high
Mediterranean
ETo: 3.007.00 mm/day
Temp: 5.0°C – 35.0°C
Frost: low
Frost Tolerance: Low frost tolerance
Heat Tolerance: Moderate heat tolerance
Dragonfruit is sensitive to frost and should be protected in cooler climates. It prefers full sun exposure and can tolerate high temperatures if adequately watered.

Planting Layout

100.00cm
Row Spacing
50.00cm
Plant Spacing
20,000
Plants per ha

Nutrient Requirements (kg/ha)

Nitrogen (N)150 kg/ha
Phosphorus (P)60 kg/ha
Potassium (K)180 kg/ha
40
Calcium (Ca) kg/ha
25
Magnesium (Mg) kg/ha
20
Sulfur (S) kg/ha
Schedule: Apply nitrogen in 3 splits during growing season
Organic Matter: 2-3% organic matter recommended

Yield Information

25,000
kg/ha
2.500
kg/plant
0.450
Harvest Index
Quality Factors: Size, color, sugar content

Design Your Dragonfruit (Or Pitaya) Irrigation System

Use our free calculators to plan water requirements, spacing, and system costs for your Dragonfruit (Or Pitaya) field.

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Related Guides

Dragonfruit (Or Pitaya): A Guide to Growing and Irrigating Economically

Introduction Dragonfruit, also known as Pitaya, is a tropical fruit that has gained popularity in recent years due to its unique appearance and health benefits. It is native to Central America but is now cultivated in various parts of the world. Growing Dragonfruit can be a profitable venture, provided the right…

Read Guide
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