How to Grow Dragon Fruit in the UK

Dragon fruit, called pitaya, is an exotic fruit known for its beauty; both in flavour and appearance, and its incredible nutritional benefits. 

While dragon fruit is native to tropical and subtropical climates, growing dragon fruit in the UK is entirely possible with the right approach and conditions. 

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about cultivating this stunning fruit, even in the cooler climates of the UK.

 


 

What is Dragon Fruit?

Dragon fruit comes from several species of cacti, most commonly Hylocereus undatus, Hylocereus costaricensis, and Hylocereus megalanthus. Each variety has unique characteristics:

  1. Hylocereus undatus (White-Fleshed Dragon Fruit): This is the most common variety, featuring vibrant pink skin and white flesh dotted with tiny black seeds. It has a mildly sweet flavour and a crisp texture.

  2. Hylocereus costaricensis (Red-Fleshed Dragon Fruit): Known for its striking magenta flesh, this variety offers a sweeter, more robust flavour compared to the white-fleshed type.

  3. Hylocereus megalanthus (Yellow Dragon Fruit): With bright yellow skin and white flesh, this smaller variety is exceptionally sweet and aromatic, making it a common favorite among those who have tasted all 3.

For UK growers, dragon fruit can be grown indoors, in greenhouses, or even outdoors during the warmer months, provided they are protected from frost.

 


 

Dragon Fruit Growing Season

The growing season for dragon fruit typically coincides with the warmer months, from late spring through early autumn (May to September) in the UK. 

During this time, the plant is most active in its growth and flowering stages due to longer daylight hours and warmer temperatures. 

In cooler months, the plant enters a dormant phase, requiring less water and fertilizer. 

 


 

Step-by-Step Guide to Growing Dragon Fruit in the UK

1. Choosing the Right Environment

Dragon fruit thrives in warm, sunny conditions. In the UK, it is best grown in:

  • Greenhouses or Polytunnels: These provide the controlled temperature and humidity that dragon fruit prefers, especially during the colder months.

  • Indoors: A sunny windowsill or conservatory can be an excellent location.

  • Outdoors: During late spring and summer, dragon fruit can be placed outside, but it must be brought indoors as temperatures drop below 10°C.

2. Sourcing Dragon Fruit Plants or Seeds

  • You can purchase dragon fruit cuttings, seeds, or young plants from specialized nurseries or online retailers.

Shop Dragon Fruit Seeds here.

3. Germinating Your Dragon Fruit Seeds

  1. Sowing Seeds: Fill a seed tray or small pots with well-draining cactus potting mix. Scatter the seeds on the surface and cover them with a thin layer of soil, no more than 1–2 mm deep.

  2. Watering: Mist the soil lightly with water to ensure it is moist but not waterlogged.

  3. Germination: Place the tray or pots in a warm location with indirect sunlight. Keep the soil consistently moist. Germination typically occurs within 1–2 weeks.

  4. Transplanting: Once the seedlings are 5–10 cm tall, they can be transplanted into individual pots or larger containers.

4. Planting Your Seedlings & Soil Requirements

  • Soil: Dragon fruit requires well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0 to 7.0). Use a cactus potting mix or create your own by mixing sand, perlite, and compost.

  • Container: If growing in pots, choose a large container with good drainage holes. Dragon fruit plants can become top-heavy, so ensure the pot is stable.

  • Planting: Insert seedlings about 5–7 cm deep into the soil. Water lightly to settle the soil around the base.

5. Providing Support for Growth

Dragon fruit plants are climbing cacti that require sturdy support as they grow. Use:

  • Trellises: Attach the plant to a trellis to encourage upright growth.

  • Posts: A wooden or metal post with horizontal arms at the top is ideal for supporting mature plants.

6. Watering and Feeding

  • Watering: Dragon fruit plants are drought-tolerant but need regular watering during the growing season (May-Sep). Allow the topsoil to dry out slightly between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so be cautious.

  • Feeding: Use a balanced cactus fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (May-Sep). Reduce feeding during the winter when the plant is dormant.

7. Temperature and Light Requirements

  • Temperature: Dragon fruit plants prefer temperatures between 20°C and 30°C. Protect them from frost and cold drafts in winter by keeping them indoors or in a heated greenhouse.

  • Light: Provide at least 6–8 hours of bright, indirect sunlight daily. Supplemental grow lights can be used during darker winter months in the UK.

8. Pollination

Dragon fruit plants produce stunning, nocturnal flowers that are pollinated by bats and moths in their native habitats. In the UK, you may need to hand-pollinate the flowers:

  • Use a small paintbrush or cotton swab to transfer pollen from the anthers to the stigma of the flower.

  • Pollination is best done in the evening when the flowers are fully open.

9. Pest and Disease Management

  • Pests: Common pests include mealybugs and aphids. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to manage infestations.

  • Diseases: Overwatering can cause fungal infections or root rot. Ensure proper drainage and avoid waterlogging.

10. Harvesting Your Dragon Fruit

  • Dragon fruit is ready to harvest about 30–50 days after flowering. Look for these signs:

    • The fruit’s skin has vibrant, even colouring.

    • The "wings" or scales on the fruit begin to dry out slightly.

  • Use a pair of sharp scissors or pruning shears to cut the fruit from the plant.

 


 

5 Tips for Success Growing Dragon Fruit in the UK

...


Why Grow Dragon Fruit in the UK?

Growing dragon fruit in the UK is a rewarding challenge that allows you to enjoy a taste of the exotics right from your own home or garden. This stunning fruit is not only delicious and nutritious but also a beautiful addition to any indoor or outdoor space. 

By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can successfully grow and harvest your own dragon fruit, no matter the climate challenges.

For more exotic fruits and seeds, check out exoticfruits.co.uk.

 

You have successfully subscribed!
This email has been registered