Step-by-Step Growing Guide
Dragon fruit (Hylocereus undatus and related species) is an epiphytic cactus that climbs trees in its native Central American habitat using aerial roots. Grow in very fast-draining, sandy or rocky soil with a pH of 6.0–7.0 — the number one cause of failure is waterlogged roots, which rot quickly. Construct a sturdy concrete post or timber trellis 5–6 feet tall per plant; plants eventually weigh 200–300 pounds and must be adequately supported. Plant rooted cuttings at the base of the post, training the growing tip upward. In tropical and subtropical climates (zones 9–11), plant in full sun. Water every 2 weeks during active growth, less in winter. Apply balanced fertilizer with micronutrients monthly from spring through fall — dragon fruit is a cactus but is not a desert plant and responds strongly to good feeding. Flowers are enormous (12 inches across), white, fragrant, and open only at night — they require hand pollination or the presence of night-flying pollinators (hawkmoths, bats). Each flower lasts only one night.