Hylocereus species have the propensity to be epiphytic in nature, so try growing them attached to trees or braced supports.
They will even grow attached to walls where thermal and radiated heat are ideal for conducive growth. Select a full sun to partial shade position, but full sun is preferred for optimum growth. If you are growing on a larger scale sentinel rows are recommended with strong, bracing supports required - not dissimilar to viticulture. This allows for optimum growth and ease of harvesting as fruits appear only on new growth.
Planting and maintenance
Although cactus-like in appearance, Dragon Fruit have a broad growing spectrum. From classic wet/dry seasons (i.e. monsoonal zones) through to irrigated dry zones (i.e. desert regions), even classic tropic and sub-tropic areas and some west maritime environments (i.e. wet cool winters/hot dry summers).
Depending on the climate, regular watering through the summer months is required, with less during winter, or the cooler months. Be sure not to over water as excessive watering perpetuates disease issues and compromises flowering and fruit.
Fertilising with organic manures will ensure balanced nutritional requirements for growth. Potash or activated charcoals are needed for inducement of floriferous growth, and hence fruit, so are also recommended.
Dragon Fruit soil profiles are tolerant of lime and acid soils, compacted soils, sand and loamy profiles hence a broad spectrum.
Remove spent or damaged limbs when, and if, required as weighted limbs can often snap. Prune for balanced structure and shape once established.
Plant husbandry, pest and diseases
Pest such as birds, and other vermin can be a nuisance. Diseases such as rust can transmit via spores are most prevalent in warm humid conditions. Plant husbandry is crucial. If any occurrence treat with systemic fungicides or copper based treatments. Other diseases to be aware of are bacterium xanthomonas campestris(stem rot) and the dothiorella fungi (brown spotting on the fruits).
Pollination is crucial for fruit production. Natural pollination occurs via nocturnal pollinators; moths and bats are a fine example. If these pollinators are absent then hand pollination is required. Remember although most Dragon Fruit are self fertile cross pollination by poly planting and hand pollination will improve cropping and quality of the fruits. The inflorescence (flower) only appear in the evening, so collection of pollen may be conducted then when the flower is fully open. The best and most virile pollen forms can be collected from the Pearl and Red hylocereus type species. Types can be maintained and new and exciting hybrids can be created by crossing and interbreeding within the genus. Store pollen in the refrigerator if unable to pollinate the flowers.
Allow maturing fruit to fully ripen before picking. Often it will drop naturally but observation is recommended. Do not store fruits in the refrigerator as this will impact on the sugar levels in the fruit and have a less desirable taste. Eat fruit freshly harvested or store in a appropriate area.