TLDR;
This video explains five key reasons why a dragon fruit plant might not be producing fruit, even after a year of growth. It covers the importance of a strong trellis system, ensuring the plant is mature enough, proper pruning techniques, providing adequate sunlight, and the necessity of fertilization. Additionally, it provides a bonus tip on "tipping" branches to encourage fruit production.
- Trellis system is important for plant growth and fruit production.
- Dragon fruit plant needs to be mature enough to produce fruits.
- Pruning excessive growth is important for energy distribution.
- Dragon fruits need enough sunlight to produce fruits.
- Fertilizing dragon fruits is important for growth and fruit production.
Importance of Trellis Support [0:20]
Dragon fruits need a strong trellis system to climb and support their heavy branches. A trellis helps the plant grow faster and produce fruits more quickly. Various trellis designs can be used, including standard 4x4 posts with 2x4 tops or even tomato trellises. Without a trellis, the plant's growth becomes uncontrolled, delaying fruit production as branches grow wildly and don't mature properly.
Plant Maturity [2:06]
A young dragon fruit cutting will not produce fruit in its first year. The plant needs to mature, which means it should climb to the top of the trellis and develop three to five sub-branches that canopy out. Cutting the top of the main branch stimulates new growth and sub-branches, which are essential for fruit production. Mature sub-branches that reach the top of the canopy are capable of producing fruit.
Pruning Techniques [5:47]
Pruning excessive lower growth is crucial for fruit production. Lower branches, or "suckers," can drain energy from the plant, preventing the top branches from producing fruit. While some lower branches can be left for cuttings, it's best to limit them to two or three per main branch. Tipping these lower branches, which involves breaking off the tip, can also encourage them to produce flower buds. Pruning directs the plant's energy to the top, promoting fruit development.
Sunlight Requirements [14:57]
Dragon fruits thrive in full sun, which is essential for energy production and fruit yield. While they need ample sunlight, it's important to protect them from scorching temperatures (95-100°F) by providing shade cloth, canopies, or beach umbrellas during heat waves. Insufficient sunlight, such as from being shaded by trees, can significantly reduce fruit production. Varieties in full sun produce more fruit and exhibit better variegation.
Fertilizing Dragon Fruit [20:19]
Fertilizing dragon fruits is important for growth and fruit production. During early spring, use an all-purpose fertilizer with a balanced NPK (Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium) to promote new growth. As flowering season approaches, switch to a fertilizer that boosts bud and bloom, such as Dr. Earth's Bud and Bloom Booster. Regular fertilization provides the necessary nutrients for the plant to produce abundant buds and flowers.
Bonus Tip: Tipping the Branch [23:26]
Tipping the branch involves cutting off the tip of a horizontally growing branch to stop its growth in that direction. This encourages the branch to mature, swell up, and produce new growth and fruit. Tipping is best done during the summertime or early spring to prepare the branches for fruiting. By removing the tip, the plant redirects its energy into developing the branch into a mature, fruit-bearing state.