Impact of soil mixtures on vegetative and reproductive growth of dragon fruits

Abstract

The Southern Sundarban region, known for its ecological diversity and agricultural challenges exacerbated by frequent cyclones, has been exploring resilient alternatives to conventional crops in the aftermath of cyclones like Amphan (2020) and Yaas (2021) (Das, B., 2020) [4]. This study investigates the impact of soil mix variations on dragon fruit (Hylocereus spp.) production, considering crucial morphological parameters. Employing rigorous methods, including ANOVA for statistical analysis, the research examines the effects of eight distinct soil mixtures with varying organic matter and mineral proportions on dragon fruit growth and productivity. Dragon fruit, valued for its economic and nutritional significance, is influenced by various factors, with soil composition playing a pivotal role. Morphological parameters such as plant height, stem diameter, number of branches, flower and fruit production, and overall plant health were evaluated over the cultivation period. The objective is to offer insights into selecting optimal soil mixes to maximize dragon fruit yield and quality, aiding growers in making informed decisions to enhance production in the Southern Sundarban region.