Priscilla, a Kenyan farmer has shed some light on the lucrative nature of dragon fruit, one of the most expensive fruits in the country.
Priscila who runs Wonderful Heaven Fruits Orchard in Laikipia county says dragon fruit is not a ‘quail’ business as perceived by some people, adding that she makes over Sh10,000 from a single plant.
She explains that while the fruit’s value has gone down compared to the past years, it’s still profitable. According to her, the market price of a single dragon fruit was initially $10 but has now dropped to $3 per piece.
“A single post can give you up to 10 kilos which is about 30 fruits. Assuming the price of $3, you will get $90 (Sh11,632) from a single pole. This is a fruit that has a good future not only as a fruit but also in terms of value addition into dragon fruit powder,” she explains.
The farmer explains that for a dragon fruit plant to produce optimally, pruning must be observed to direct the plant’s energy towards fruit production.
Additionally, while the fruit is drought tolerant, Priscila says irrigation is crucial, adding that overhead irrigation is the best irrigation method as the water drops induce flowering, ensuring production throughout the year.
Like any other business, dragon fruit farming has a fair share of its challenges among them managing the excess branches. Priscila says, a farmer may experience low production if the plants are not pruned.
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Additionally, waterlogging in cases of heavy rainfall is another nightmare. The farmer manages this by heaping the soil mixed with manure.
Dragon fruit has multiple uses, including as a food colour, a supplement, or in weight loss. The plant thrives well in tropical climates and requires minimal attention and care compared to other crops.
Planting is either done through grafted seedlings/cuttings or seeds. However, cuttings from a mature plant is the most preferred method because it would take approximately 12 to 18 months for the seedling/cutting to mature, depending on the ecological zone, whereas the seeds would take almost 3 years to mature.
A spacing of 3 meters apart or more is recommended to allow for mobility during maintenance.
Benefits of dragon fruit
- Serves as an antioxidant for cancer, hypertension, diabetes, and constipation;
- Its calcium helps in bone rigidity and formation;
- You can make vinegar, wine, jam, yogurt, ice cream, herbal tea, and bathing soap;
- Adds aesthetic value to the environment and enhances biodiversity;
- It is high in vitamins, minerals, and fiber which boosts immunity and improves digestion.
