UC Ag and Natural Resources is hosting a Dragon Fruit Production Workshop and Farm Tour for growers in the San Diego area. The two-day event will discuss topics ranging from variety selection and field establishment to irrigation, pest management and marketing. Growers will have an opportunity to see the latest research and witness hands-on demonstrations, gain insights from local grower experiences and find out how to gain access to industry resources for this increasingly popular fruit.
The workshop will be held Sept. 18 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the San Diego Farm Bureau in Escondido, and the farm tour will be held Sept. 19 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Farm stops and itinerary are yet to be decided. Registration comes with a $60 charge and must be completed by Sept. 11.
WORKSHOP TOPICS
Dragon Fruit Varieties, Establishment and Economic Considerations for Commercial Production
The Dragon Fruit Value Chain and Market Dynamics, from Producer to Consumer
Dragon Fruit Diseases and Cactus Virus X (CVX) Incidence and Management Strategies in Florida
Issues and Challenges with Dragon Fruit Production in Southern California – Facilitated Discussion with Local Growers
Dragon Fruit Sensory Evaluation and Post-Harvest Management
Dragon Fruit Value-Added Product Development
Weed Management Strategies for Dragon Fruit Production
Irrigation System Design Considerations and Water Management
Insect Pests and Management Strategies for Dragon Fruit Production
Agritourism as a Marketing Tool for Dragon Fruit
Lightning Presentations About UCANR & Other Support Programs
Food Safety Technical Assistance Program
California Agricultural Land Equity
California Under Served Population (CUSP) Program
Transitioning to Organic Agriculture
Climate Smart Agriculture Program
Mission Resource Conservation District (RCD) Programs
FIELD DAY ACTIVITIES- (Tour stops to be determined)
Host farm overview and Tours
Pruning, Pollination and Trellis System demonstration
Irrigation Systems Design and Components
Insect and/or Weed Pest Identification Clinic
Backpack Sprayer Calibration Clinic
Value-added Product Development demonstration
Pitahaya and Value-added product tasting
— Story contributed by UC Ag and Natural Resources