KARACHI: Pakistan Horticulture Development and Export Company (PHDEC) hosted a webinar on the topic of ‘Unlocking the Potential: Dragon Fruit Cultivation Techniques and Future Opportunities’.

Dragon fruit, also known as pitaya or pitahaya, has gained tremendous popularity in recent years, becoming a sought-after fruit globally. Its unique appearance, vibrant colors, and health benefits have contributed to its rise in demand.

Sajid Iqbal Sindhu, Director General (Punjab), Agri-Tourism Development Corporation of Pakistan (ATDCP), stated that Pakistan’s warm climate and fertile soils make it an ideal location for the cultivation of dragon fruit, a unique and exotic tropical fruit. While explaining about varieties, he added that American beauty, Aussie Gold Yellow, Helay comet white, white Thai Dragon and Thai Taiwan red Lisa are suitable varieties for Pakistani climate.

He explained that Dragon fruit thrives in warm, tropical climates with moderate temperatures ranging from 20°C to 35°C. It prefers well-drained, nutrient-rich soil with a slightly acidic pH between 6.0 and 7.0.

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