If you’ve been to Shara Community Gardens recently, you might have noticed the significant trimming happening around our dragon fruit plants. Neglected for a little while, these vigorous growers had taken over, spreading out over the mulberry tree and along the support structure. Dragon fruit is a delicious tropical fruit that grows easily in our area, but if left unchecked, it can quickly dominate!
Why prune dragon fruit?
Pruning dragon fruit is essential – or you might just find it takes over! It also ensures better air circulation and sunlight penetration, and promotes healthier and more productive plants. Regular pruning also makes it easier to harvest the fruit and prevents the plant from overwhelming other garden areas.
Our progress
Over the past few months, we’ve been working hard to get our dragon fruit back under control. This process involves carefully cutting back the overgrown branches and redirecting the plant’s growth. We’ve taken about 12 green bin loads to date! Our goal is to establish a new system for growing dragon fruit in a more controlled and organised way.
Tips for Trimming Dragon Fruit
If you’re considering trimming your dragon fruit, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Wear Gloves: Dragon fruit have sharp spikes! Take care and wear appropriate gloves.
- Cut at the Joints: When pruning, it’s easiest to cut at the joints where the branches meet. This helps prevent damage to the main plant and encourages healthy new growth.
- Use a Sharp Tool: Always use a sharp, clean tool for pruning. Sharp tools make clean cuts that heal quickly, reducing the risk of infection and disease. We’ve used both a lopper and an electric reciprocating saw.
- Don’t Leave Any Pieces Lying Around: Dragon fruit can take root and grow from almost any piece left on the ground. Make sure to collect and dispose of all cuttings properly (i.e. in a green bin) to prevent unwanted new growth.
What’s Next?
We’re still working on trimming back our dragon fruit and plan to implement a new system for growing them. Our aim is to maintain a controlled, productive, and good-looking dragon fruit patch. Watch this space!
If you have any questions about dragon fruit care or have dragon fruit (or dragon…) taming expertise, please get in touch.
Happy taming!
Shara Community Gardens 