Phenological growth stages of dragon fruit (Hylocereus undatus) according to the extended BBCH-scale

Abstract

Hylocereus undatus is a night blooming, hemiepiphytic climbing cactus known for its high fruit value and market potential. However there is a dearth of information about its phenology. The present study defines codes and phenological stages of dragon fruit according to the extended BBCH (Biologische Bundesantalt, Bundessortenamt und Chemische Industrie) scale using three-digit numerical system which contributes to the standardization of its phenological stages. Seven principal growth stages, viz., bud development (0), shoot development (1), vegetatively propagated organ development (4), reproductive development (5), flowering (6), fruit development (7) and fruit maturation (8) have been described. A total of 40 secondary growth stages have been described and defined. The extended BBCH scale for dragon fruit is broadly applicable because it describes all the phenophases pertaining to vegetative and reproductive stages and their relative importance in crop management and improvement. The developed scale will act as a useful tool for adoption of effective crop management practices like nutrient management, pollination, plant propagation, timely harvest of fruits and pest management. The scale may also be effectively used for characterization of germplasm and assessment of climatic impact on crop phenology.