May 03, 2024 | Applied Fruit Science |
Examining the cultivation of dragon fruit (Hylocereus spp.), known as ‘Kamalam’ in India, the study was conducted by ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute and Krishi Vigyan Kendra. Recently, dragon fruit has garnered attention for its unique appearance, nutritional benefits, and stress tolerance. The primary variants cultivated worldwide include Hylocereus undatus, H. monacanthus, and H. megalanthus. In India, dragon fruit cultivation has expanded significantly due to various government initiatives and research efforts since its introduction in the 1990s. However, information on optimal production techniques remains limited. This review aims to fill that gap by discussing advancements in cultivation methods. It covers various aspects such as planting techniques, propagation, training and pruning, irrigation, nutrient management, and harvesting practices. The study provides a comprehensive overview of the current knowledge and technological advancements in dragon fruit cultivation, aiming to support and improve its production in India.