International Journal of Horticulture, 2024, Vol.14, No.3, 156-162 http://hortherbpublisher.com/index.php/ijh 159 6.1 Irrigation methods Drip irrigation not only enhances water use efficiency but also reduces soil erosion and water evaporation. Research has shown that drip irrigation can significantly improve the growth condition and fruit yield of dragon fruit (Muslim et al., 2019). During summer or dry days, applying 2-4 liters of water per plant twice weekly is adequate. 6.2 Irrigation frequency and water volume Stable water supply is essential for the growth of dragon fruit, especially during its flowering and fruiting periods. It is generally recommended to maintain a twice-weekly irrigation frequency during dry seasons, with 2-4 liters of water per application to ensure normal growth and development of the plants. However, specific irrigation frequency and water volume should be adjusted according to local climate conditions, soil type, and the growth stage of the dragon fruit. 6.3 Water quality management The quality of water used for irrigation is also crucial for the growth of dragon fruit. Dragon fruit is sensitive to salinity; therefore, low-salinity water sources should be used for irrigation. Additionally, the pH of the irrigation water should be maintained between 6.0 and 7.5 to ensure optimal nutrient absorption and plant health. 6.4 Rainy season and drainage management During the rainy season, excessive rainfall may lead to waterlogging in the soil, affecting the respiration and health of the root system of dragon fruit. Therefore, a good drainage system is essential to avoid waterlogging and root rot diseases. Drainage ditches can be set up in the planting area to ensure excess rainwater is drained promptly. 6.5 Dry season and water resource storage In the dry season, the storage and management of water resources are particularly important. Reservoirs, water tanks, or rainwater harvesting systems can be used to store water for future use. Moreover, a reasonable irrigation schedule and water resource management strategy can effectively address the challenges of the dry season, ensuring stable and sustainable development of dragon fruit cultivation. By implementing scientific water management measures, dragon fruit cultivation can maintain good growth conditions under various climate conditions, improve yield and fruit quality, and maximize economic benefits. 7 Weed Management In the cultivation of dragon fruit, weed management is a crucial aspect. Weeds not only compete with dragon fruit for nutrients, water, and light but can also host pests and diseases, negatively impacting the growth of dragon fruit. Therefore, regular weeding is a necessary measure. 7.1 Manual and mechanical weeding Manual weeding is a traditional and effective method, especially suitable for small-scale farming or areas with dense weed growth. By manually pulling out weeds, the roots can be completely removed, reducing the chances of regrowth. Manual weeding is typically conducted during the early planting stages and throughout the growth period, requiring frequent inspections and timely intervention. For large-scale cultivation, mechanical weeding is a highly efficient option. Using weeding machines can significantly reduce labor intensity and time costs, improving weeding efficiency. Mechanical weeding is suitable for handling weeds between rows, but care must be taken to avoid damaging the dragon fruit plants. 7.2 Chemical weeding The use of chemical herbicides can effectively control weed growth, but it is crucial to carefully select the appropriate type and dosage of herbicide to avoid adverse effects on dragon fruit and the environment. When
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