How to Grow Purple Dragon Fruit from Cuttings for Beginners

Growing purple dragon fruit (Hylocereus costaricensis) from cuttings is a relatively straightforward process, making it suitable for beginners. Here are step-by-step instructions on how to do it:

Materials you’ll need:

A healthy purple dragon fruit cutting (also known as a “stem” or “segment”) from a mature plant.
A small pot or container with drainage holes.
Well-draining potting mix (cactus or succulent mix is ideal).
A support structure such as a trellis or stake.
A sunny location or a grow light.
Steps:

Select and Prepare the Cutting:
Choose a healthy stem segment from a mature purple dragon fruit plant. The cutting should be at least 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) long and have no signs of disease or damage.
Allow the cutting to dry and callus for a few days. Place it in a dry, shaded area to prevent rotting. This step helps prevent fungal issues when you plant it.
Prepare the Pot:
Fill a small pot or container with well-draining potting mix. Ensure the pot has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
Plant the Cutting:
Make a hole in the potting mix deep enough to accommodate the lower end of the cutting (usually 4-6 inches or 10-15 cm deep).
Insert the cutting into the hole, ensuring that at least one node (the small, bump-like protrusions along the stem) is below the soil level. This is where roots will develop.

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