Should dragon fruit be watered every day?
As a tropical cactus plant, dragon fruit's unique fleshy stem structure determines its special water requirement. Mastering scientific watering methods can not only avoid root rot, but also effectively increase the rate of fruit hanging. This article will systematically analyze the water management tips of dragon fruit from daily maintenance to cuttage propagation. 1. Core principles for watering dragon fruit 1. Differences in water requirements for growth cycles keep the soil slightly moist during the seedling period, and mature plants have strong drought tolerance. Soil moisture is maintained at 60%-80% during the spring and summer growth period, and can be reduced to 40% during the winter hibernation period. Do not mechanically perform daily watering, which should be combined with the actual dry and wet conditions of the basin soil. 2. Four-step watering diagnosis method (1) Visual inspection method: the soil on the surface layer is white and dry;(2) Palpation method: the bamboo stick is inserted at 10cm without moisture;(3) Weighing method: the weight of the potted plant is reduced by 1/3;(4) Seasonal adjustment: Water in the morning and evening in summer, and at noon in winter. 2. Moisture control for cuttage propagation 1. Golden 10-day maintenance period After cuttage, branches need to be left standing for 10 days for callus to form. At this stage, water is cut off to prevent mildew. On the 11th day, pour it thoroughly along the edge of the basin for the first time, and then maintain the principle of "dry and thoroughly pour" and use 70% sunshade net to avoid exposure to the sun. 2. Water management during the rooting period. During the germination stage of new roots (about 30-45 days), spray drying method is used. Spray water is sprayed on the leaves every morning and evening, and the moisture content of the substrate is controlled at about 50%. Transfer to routine maintenance after the new buds expand their leaves. 3. Special climate response plan Build a rainproof canopy in the plum rainy season, and lay straw to protect moisture on high temperature days. Continuous rainy weather requires delaying watering for 7-10 days, and spray water on leaves in the morning and evening to cool down in strong weather. It is recommended to use ceramsite base + coconut bran substrate to improve air permeability for potted plants.
By establishing a scientific watering system of "observation-diagnosis-regulation", the occurrence of black rot can be avoided and the healthy growth of dragon fruit can be ensured. Keep in mind the basic principle of "better dry than wet" and coordinate with seasonal adjustments, you can cultivate high-quality dragon fruit with thick stems and rich flowers and fruits.