Dragon Fruit Cultivation : Including Varieties, Origins, and Growing Tip

Over 10,000 farmers in India have started cultivating the fruit, which is currently turning into one of the fastest-growing fruits. Dragon fruit, also known as Pitaya, is a tropical fruit very much in hype for its bright pink color, sweetness, and health benefits. In recent years, more and more farmers from this coastal region of Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka have been cultivating this exotic fruit. 

Pitaya dragon fruit is one of the most highly demanded fruits at the domestic and export levels, obtaining good profits for farmers. It requires very little water and can be produced ideally in warm-weather areas, so it is perfect for farmers. The cost of 250 grams is Rs. 112, meaning that it sells at an expensive market price. 

As a result, more and more farmers are getting encouraged by government initiatives and growing awareness of the health benefits of the fruit to take up dragon fruit as a profitable alternative. Now, let's look at the top-growing and successful dragon fruit-producing states of India.

Which Indian States are Perfect for the Cultivation of Dragon Fruit in India?

Since its introduction to India in the late 1990s, the country has witnessed a sharp rise in the cultivation of dragon fruit. By 2020, more than 3,000 hectares were under cultivation, compared to just 4 hectares in 2005. States like Gujarat, Karnataka, and Maharashtra, which combined generate around 70% of all dragon fruit produced in India, are the main drivers of this rise.

Dragon fruit cultivation is most advanced in the Kutch region of Gujarat, northern Karnataka, and western Maharashtra. Between 2012 and 2020, the area in Karnataka increased from 10 to 500 hectares, with intentions to reach 5,000 hectares shortly after. 

Currently, more than 200 farmers in Gujarat cultivate dragon fruit on 800 hectares. Over 12,000 tons of dragon fruit were produced in India in 2020. While established regions yield 8 to 13.5 tons per hectare, new areas yield 1.5 to 3.1 tons per hectare.

The cultivation of dragon fruit appears to have a bright future in India. Forecasts suggest that the area under cultivation will rise tenfold, maybe to 30,000 hectares by 2025. The market's demand, customer preferences, and favourable government policies will all play a major role in this rise.

Types of Dragon Fruits Cultivated In India

Dragon fruit comes in various colors, each with its unique appearance and flavour. The pink dragon fruit features vibrant pink skin and white flesh, while the yellow dragon fruit has striking yellow skin and white flesh. The red dragon fruit is known for its red skin and flesh, and the white dragon fruit typically has white skin and flesh. Each variety offers a distinct taste and look. Learn more about them in the table below: 

Price Range For Different Varieties Of Dragon Fruit Available In The Market

Dragon Fruit Cultivation Process In India

Climatic Conditions: Dragon fruit requires tropical weather with temperatures ranging between 20°C to 30°C. Additionally, it needs 40–60 cm of rainfall to support healthy growth.

Soil Requirements: Dragon fruit can grow in various soil types but prefers sandy soils that are rich in organic matter. The ideal pH range for optimal growth is between 5.5 and 7.
 

Seed Bed Preparation: To prepare the soil bed, place it in sunny areas with well-drained soil. It's crucial to keep the roots dry to prevent rotting and promote healthy plant growth.
 

Plant Propagation: Plant propagation can be done by seeds or cuttings. Propagation by seeds takes 2-3 years for the plants to start fruiting, making it less suitable for commercial farming. 
Propagation by cuttings is more efficient. 20 cm cuttings from a healthy mother plant are used, and these cuttings are planted in pits filled with a mix of soil, manure, and superphosphate for better growth. This plant produces large dragon

fruit flowers that bloom at night, leading to the fruit's development.
 

Fertilisation: To fertilise each plant, apply 10-15 kg of organic compost. Inorganic fertilisers can also be used at different stages to support growth and fruiting.
 

Harvesting: Harvesting takes place 27-30 days after the fruits start to mature. It's important to harvest the fruits promptly to avoid spoilage.

Dragon Fruit Cultivation in India: Opportunity and Challenges

Health Benefits of Eating Dragon Fruit

• High In Fibre
• Controls Diabetes
• Anti-Cancer Properties
• Help In Digestion
• Improves Hair and Eye Health
• Helps In pregnancy

Dragon food fruit is becoming popular because of its numerous health benefits. Here are some key advantages:
 

High Fiber and Low Fat: The very high fibre, fat-free snack is dragon fruit. So, eating it makes you feel full for a longer period. You can eat this fruit either raw or in the form of dragon fruit juice.
Blood Sugar Control: Eating dragon fruit may help lower blood sugar levels by supporting the function of pancreatic cells that produce insulin, though this has mostly been tested in mice, not humans.
Anti-Cancer Properties: The fruit's anti-cancer properties, combined with its high vitamin C content, help boost the immune system and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and Alzheimer's. 
Digestive Health: Dragon fruit is rich in oligosaccharides, which are good for digestion and promote healthy gut bacteria. Its high fibre content also lowers the risks of cardiovascular diseases and some cancers. 
Hair Health: For shiny, strong hair, mix 250 ml of milk with dragon fruit powder and consume it daily. The fruit's vitamins help repair hair damage and improve texture.
Eye Health: The beta-carotene in dragon fruit can help protect your eyes from conditions like cataracts and macular degeneration. Aim to eat one cup (220 grams) of dragon fruit each day for best results.
Dragon Fruit and Pregnancy: Dragon fruit is rich in nutrients and vitamins, making it a healthy choice during pregnancy, but it's best to consult a doctor for personalised advice.

Dragon Fruit Cultivation: Global Status

This fruit was introduced for commercial cultivation in South Asian countries around 1990. Today, it is produced in countries like Vietnam, China, Mexico, and the United States. Vietnam is the largest producer, contributing 51.1% of the world’s dragon fruit production, with an annual yield of over 1 million tons. China follows with 33.3%, producing 700,000 tons annually. Indonesia is the third-largest producer, with a 10.6% share.

Major Dragon Fruit Producing Countries (2017-18)
 

The Final Thoughts 

Do you know dragon fruit is from which country? Dragon fruit, also known as pitaya, originates from Central America, particularly Mexico. This fruit is quickly growing in popularity in India due to its health benefits and profitable yields. With the right climate and soil conditions, and by addressing challenges like high initial costs and proper care, dragon fruit farming can be a rewarding venture. Globally, countries like Vietnam and China lead in production.