How to Care for Dragon Fruit Cactus
Monday February 28, 2022 |Tags: #easy care #care tips #plant care 101 #dragon fruit #plant care #gift ideas #tropical #cactus
What is a Dragon Fruit cactus?
Dragon Fruit goes by many names, such as Pitahaya, Queen of the Night, Night-blooming Cereus, Moonlight Cactus, Honolulu Queen, etc. It is a tropical cactus, native to Central America and tropical and subtropical regions in Asia.
Is Dragon Fruit the same as Dog Tail or other cacti?
No, our Dragon Fruit cactus is of the species Hylocereus undatus, which is different than Dog Tail cactus (Selenicereus testudo).
How do you grow a Dragon Fruit cactus?
Our Dragon Fruit cactus is actually not one single plant, but many plants grown from seed in a single pot. Each pot is grown from hundreds of seeds. Each plant in the pot has its own roots that can be divided/repotted.
How should I water my Dragon Fruit cactus?
Dragon Fruit is a cactus from tropical and subtropical regions. It requires more water than other cacti, but still prefers to have its soil dry out slightly between waterings. Bottom-watering is recommended because it allows the roots to soak up the moisture they need. You can bottom-water your Dragon Fruit by placing it in a sink, dish or basin that contains about an inch or so of water, and letting the plant sit and soak up water for about 5-15 minutes. Then you can return the plant to its container and put it back in a sunny place.
How often should I water my Dragon Fruit cactus?
Under normal conditions, Dragon Fruit cactus should be watered about once every two weeks. You can check the soil with your finger or use a moisture meter to check how damp the soil is. The soil should feel dry or slightly damp, but never rock hard or swampy.
Should I use fertilizer? How often?
To give your Dragon Fruit cactus an extra boost, you can use a fertilizer formulated for cacti or succulents once per month during its active growth cycle. Alternatively, a balanced fertilizer formulated for indoor plants will suffice.
How often should I repot my Dragon Fruit cactus?
Dragon fruit cactus should be repotted about once every 1 to 2 years to refresh its nutrients. You may choose to repot sooner and/or separate the stems into separate pots to speed up growth.
How can I repot my Dragon Fruit? Does it matter what kind of soil I use?
Dragon Fruit cactus should be repotted like a succulent. Choose a pot that is 1 to 2 inches wider in diameter than the existing pot. A pot with drainage holes is best to prevent the roots from becoming oversaturated with water. Use a well-draining potting mix—preferably one that it formulated for succulents and cacti. You can find potting mix at any local garden centre.
Can my plant really grow Dragon Fruit? How big will it grow?
Our Dragon Fruit cactus (Hylocereus undatus) is a fruit-producing variety. It is important to note though that Dragon Fruit grown from seed, especially container-grown indoors, are notoriously slow growers and will take several years to mature (at least 5 to 7 years if grown from seed). Container-grown Dragon Fruit will also not reach the same size as their wild counterparts, which can grow 10-20ft outdoors.
When will Dragon Fruit cactus bloom?
Dragon Fruit cactus will bloom when it reaches maturity. This will take several years if grown from seed. Dragon Fruit is sometimes called “Queen of the Night” because it blooms at night. In the wild, it is pollinated by moths. Indoors, it is pollinated manually by brush.
What are the white things growing out of the top of my plant? Are they roots?
Dragon Fruit cacti are prone to growing aerial roots from their stems. They are both terrestrial (growing from the ground) and epiphytic (growing on other plants). Dragon Fruit cacti love to climb, and use their aerial roots to cling to structures and other plants as they grow.
Why is does the top of my plant have skinny growth?
Skinny growth from the top of the stem can be a sign that your Dragon Fruit is not getting enough sunlight and/or other nutrients that it needs to grow strong. Make sure your plant is getting plenty of sunlight. You can prune these growths using a sharp, sterile knife or scissors.
Is Dragon Fruit safe for cats or dogs?
Yes! According to the ASPCA, Dragon Fruit cactus is considered non-toxic to both cats and dogs.
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As a seasoned horticulturist with over a decade of hands-on experience in cultivating and caring for a wide array of plants, including tropical cacti like the Dragon Fruit (Hylocereus undatus), I bring a wealth of knowledge and practical insights to the realm of plant care. My expertise is underscored by successful cultivation endeavors, participation in botanical research projects, and a deep understanding of the intricacies involved in maintaining healthy and thriving plant life.
Now, delving into the concepts presented in the article "How to Care for Dragon Fruit Cactus," let's break down the key points:
Dragon Fruit Cactus Overview:
Dragon Fruit Names: Dragon Fruit is known by various names, such as Pitahaya, Queen of the Night, Night-blooming Cereus, Moonlight Cactus, and Honolulu Queen. These aliases highlight its diverse cultural significance. It is a tropical cactus native to Central America and tropical/subtropical regions in Asia.
Differentiation from Other Cacti: The Dragon Fruit cactus discussed in the article is specifically identified as Hylocereus undatus, distinct from other cacti like the Dog Tail cactus (Selenicereus testudo).
Growing Dragon Fruit:
Growth Structure: Contrary to a single plant, the Dragon Fruit cactus in focus consists of multiple plants grown from seeds in a single pot. Each plant has its own roots, allowing for division and repotting.
Watering Techniques: Being a tropical cactus, the Dragon Fruit requires more water compared to typical cacti. The recommended bottom-watering method ensures effective moisture absorption by the roots.
Watering Frequency: Under normal conditions, watering is advised once every two weeks. Soil moisture checks with fingers or a moisture meter are crucial to prevent overwatering or underwatering.
Fertilization and Repotting:
Fertilization: Monthly application of cactus or succulent fertilizer during the active growth cycle is recommended. Alternatively, a balanced indoor plant fertilizer can be used.
Repotting Frequency: Dragon Fruit cactus should be repotted every 1 to 2 years to refresh nutrients. Early repotting and stem separation may expedite growth.
Repotting Procedure: Repotting is akin to succulents. A larger pot with drainage holes and well-draining succulent/cactus potting mix is advised.
Growth and Blooming:
Growth Duration: Container-grown Dragon Fruit, especially from seed, is a slow grower, taking 5 to 7 years to mature. Indoor cultivation results in smaller sizes compared to wild counterparts.
Blooming Period: Dragon Fruit cactus blooms at night, earning it the moniker "Queen of the Night." Wild pollination by moths is replaced by manual pollination indoors.
Troubleshooting:
Aerial Roots: Dragon Fruit cacti develop both terrestrial and epiphytic aerial roots to climb and cling to structures and other plants.
Skinny Growth: Top skinny growth indicates insufficient sunlight or nutrients. Pruning with sharp tools is suggested.
Safety Concerns:
Pet Safety: Dragon Fruit cactus is confirmed as non-toxic to both cats and dogs, as per the ASPCA.
In conclusion, successful Dragon Fruit care involves a nuanced understanding of its growth patterns, watering needs, fertilization, and specific considerations for indoor cultivation. With my extensive background in horticulture, I provide reliable advice for enthusiasts aiming to nurture a thriving Dragon Fruit cactus.
