Dragon Fruit Seeds

While exploring the taste, flavor, color, nutritional benefits, and the whole lot about the juicy flesh of many varieties of Dragon fruit, how can we ignore the tiny black gems embedded in that flesh? The amazing crispiness of those black Dragon fruit seeds while being pronged in the juicy flesh is itself an attractive artistry of nature!

Let us learn more about that crisp black part of juicy Dragon Fruit! There is a mountain of interesting science behind those tiny Dragon Fruit Seeds, you will be surprised to know.

Dragon fruit seeds, though are minuscule in size. However, they are naturally powered to sprout into the magnificent and delectable dragon fruit vine. Let’s discuss more about the different noticeable aspects of Dragon Fruit Seeds.

Size and Appearance of Dragon Fruit Seeds

Dragon fruit seeds are diminutive; they are quite small in size. They resemble tiny poppy seeds in size. Their shape is somewhat similar to sesame seed but the color of Dragon Fruit Seeds is a stark black. They beautifully contrast against the vibrant white, pink, or red pulp of the dragon fruit itself.

Dragon Fruit Seeds are irregularly shaped. Each Dragon Fruit Seed has a distinct form that adds to its organic charm. When you inspect them closely, you will notice that their surface appears slightly rough and pitted, almost like miniature craters dotting their exterior.

Texture of Dragon Fruit Seeds

Although they are slightly rough, but when handled dragon fruit seeds feel smooth to the touch. Their small size and smooth texture make them easy to spread evenly. You can easily use them if you want to cultivate a Dragon Fruit plant.

Despite their delicate appearance, these seeds contain the genetic blueprint for the growth of a vigorous and resilient dragon fruit plant.

Edibility of Dragon Fruit Seeds

These tiny dark crunches are not only safe to eat but contain a good value of nutrition and fiber.

Here’s a detail about the nutritional value of dragon fruit seeds:

Rich in Fiber

Dragon fruit seeds are a good source of fiber, which is important for digestive health. Fiber helps to keep you feeling full and can also help to regulate blood sugar levels.

Contains Healthy Fats

According to research published in the International Journal of Horticultural Sciences and Technology, Dragon fruit seeds also contain a good amount of healthy fats, including polyunsaturated fats like omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. These fats are essential for heart health and brain function. They reduce triglycerides and lower the risks of chronic cardiac issues.

Source of Iron

Dragon fruit seeds are a good source of iron. Iron is an essential mineral that is important for carrying oxygen throughout the body. Iron deficiency can cause you fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath.

Other Nutrients

Dragon fruit seeds also contain small amounts of other nutrients, including phosphorus, magnesium, and zinc.

Overall, dragon fruit seeds are a nutritious addition to the diet. But it is important to know that, they are not a significant source of any one nutrient. You can eat them as a part of a balanced diet.

There are some additional things to keep in mind about edibility of dragon fruit seeds:

Eat in moderation: Dragon fruit seeds are safe to eat, but it is best if you eat them in moderation. If you eat too many dragon fruit seeds you can end up with digestive discomfort.

Chew them well: If you do choose to eat dragon fruit seeds, be sure to chew them well. This will help you gain more benefits. Chewing the dragon fruit seeds will help to break down the seed coat and make the nutrients more bioavailable.

Consider taste: Some people find dragon fruit seeds to be bitter. If you don’t like the taste, you can simply swallow them whole. You can also remove them from the dragon fruit before eating.

Germination of Dragon Fruit Seeds

If you want a dragon fruit plant in your garden, you just need to have these tiny seeds. You can buy them separately from any source, or simply buy a Dragon fruit, enjoy the flesh extract out these tiny Dragon fruit seeds from your dragon fruit, and cultivate them following proper instructions.

If you have dragon fruit seeds, kept saved for a long time, and want to plant them, you’ll be glad to know that they can stay viable for several years. But only if you have stored them correctly. “Viable” means they’re still able to grow into plants.

To make those dragon fruit seeds grow, you’ll need to plant them in soil that’s moist and allows water to drain well. This type of soil helps the seeds get the right amount of water they need to sprout.

However, after planting, you’ll need to be patient. It can take a few weeks for the seeds to start sprouting and showing signs of growth above the soil. Once they start growing, it’s exciting to see them develop into a small plant.

But remember, it takes time for a plant grown from seed to become a mature vine that produces dragon fruits.

Let’s learn something more about Cultivating a Dragon Fruit seed.

Growing A Dragon Fruit Plant From Dragon Fruit Seeds

If you’re excited about growing your own dragon fruit vine from dragon fruit seeds, here are the key conditions you’ll need to cultivate them successfully:

Soil:

Well-Draining: Dragon fruit seeds need soil that drains well. This means water should flow through it easily. This flow prevents the seeds from sitting in water and protects them from rotting.

Nutrient-Rich: While not overly picky, dragon fruit plants appreciate soil that’s rich in nutrients. You can have soil designed for cacti or succulents. Cacti and succulents often thrive in similar conditions.

Watering:

Moisture: Dragon fruit seeds require consistent moisture to germinate. You have to water the soil thoroughly after planting the dragon fruit seeds. Always ensure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. You should also mist the soil gently if it starts to dry out between waterings.

Avoid Overwatering: While they like moisture, dragon fruit seeds are susceptible to rot. You will get nothing if you are making your dragon fruit seeds sit in waterlogged soil. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings to prevent this.

Temperature:

Warmth: As a tropical plant, the Dragon fruit seeds germinate best in warm temperatures. You will have to maintain the temperature of your plant pot for a range between 65°F to 80°F (18°C to 27°C) for optimal growth. If you are living in a cold area, you can place your seed pot in the kitchen premises near a window.

Protect from Cold: Dragon fruit plants are sensitive to cold temperatures, especially when they’re young. If you’re growing them in a cooler climate, never leave them outside in open spaces. Place them indoors to protect them from cold drafts or frost.

Light:

Full Sun: Dragon fruit plants love sunlight. They thrive in full sun conditions. So you have to choose a location where plenty of direct sunlight meets your baby plant for at least 6 hours a day.

Indoors: Due to any circumstances, if you’re growing your dragon fruit indoors, you should place it near a sunny window. If your living area lacks sunlight you can provide supplemental grow lights that mimic natural sunlight to your plant.

Container:

Size: If you’re growing dragon fruit in pots or containers, you have to choose a size that allows for root growth. A container with at least 10 to 15 gallons in size is ideal for a single dragon fruit plant.

Drainage Holes: Ensure your container has drainage holes. They are necessary to prevent water from pooling at the bottom.

Support:

Trellis or Stake: Dragon fruit wine is a climber. As the dragon fruit vine grows, it will need support to climb. You have to provide a trellis, stake, or similar structure for the vine to latch onto.

Planting Depth:

Shallow Planting: You have to plant your dragon fruit seeds shallowly. We recommend about 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep in the soil. This allows them to easily sprout and reach the surface.

Fertilization:

Minimal Fertilizer: In the initial days, your dragon fruit plants will not need much fertilizer. You can use just a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. Dilute it to half-strength. You can apply it to your dragon fruit plant every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.

Avoid Excess Nitrogen: Do you know too much nitrogen can result in lots of green growth but fewer fruits? Choose a fertilizer with a lower nitrogen content (observe the first number on the fertilizer label).

Patience:

Growth Time: You really have to be patient when growing your dragon fruit plant from dragon fruit seeds. Germination can take a few weeks. And you should know that it can take several years for the plant to mature and start producing fruits.

By providing these optimal conditions, you’ll give your dragon fruit seeds the best chance to sprout, grow into healthy plants, and eventually reward you with delicious fruits!

FAQs

Are Dragon fruit seeds nutritious?

Yes, dragon fruit seeds are nutritious. They contain polyunsaturated fats, Omega-3, Omega-6, fiber, and iron.

Are Dragon fruit seeds digestible?

If you chew them properly, they can be digested. But sometimes, they can pass out in stool post 12 to 24 hours of consumption. It’s okay in both ways, they usually give your digestive system no harm.

Should I soak Dragon Fruit Seeds?

For good germination, experts recommend soaking your store-bought dragon fruit seeds in Hydrogen Peroxide for a few hours.

Are Dragon Fruit Seeds natural laxative?

Yes, they can relieve your mild constipation because they are rich in fiber.