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Fertilization and nutrition

How do you fertilize dragon fruit?

Fertilizer requirements

Dragon fruit has specific nutritional needs that change as the plant matures:

1. Young plants (less than 3 years old): Apply 10-15 kilograms of farmyard manure and 100 grams of superphosphate per plant.
2. First two years: Apply 300 grams of urea and 200 grams of NPK (20-20-10) annually to each plant.
3. Mature plants (at least three years old): Apply 540 grams of N, 720 grams of P₂O₅, 300 grams of K₂O, and 20 kilograms of farmyard manure per plant each year.

For home growers with container plants: We recommend using ONLY organic fertilizers such as worm castings, which makes an incredibly nutritious top dressing that even helps repel insects. OMRI certified granular fertilizers for long term feeding (3-6 months), and OMRI certified liquid fertilizers and foliar sprays for supplemental nutrition.

Application methods

For best results when fertilizing dragon fruit:

1. Split application: Since dragon fruit has shallow roots (6 inches deep), split fertilizer applications to prevent leaching.
2. Organic fertilizer: Apply generously at the base of the post, mixing it into the top soil.
3. Inorganic fertilizer: Place 5-8 centimeters away from the plant's base to avoid direct contact.
4. Timing: Apply organic compost once every three months for container plants.
5. Additional nutrients: Borax, calcium, magnesium, and micronutrients can improve fruit growth and firmness.