The Autonomous University of Chapingo has carried out a study on the viability of pitahaya cultivation in the region of the Yucatan Peninsula as an alternative to traditional crops, highlighting the importance of irrigation systems to optimize the potential of the crop.
The federal government, the governments of some states, and the producers themselves have already tried to promote the proper management and commercialization of pitahaya, through research and teaching centers such as the Yucatan Peninsula Regional University Center, attached to the Autonomous University of Chapingo.
The study indicates that pitahaya grows wild in 20 states of the Republic, although it is only grown for commercial purposes in several regions of Tabasco, the Peninsula of Yucatan, and Mixteca poblana.
According to the research, the great potential of this crop can only be fully exploited with the incorporation of irrigation systems and the application of growth regulators to advance or delay flowering and ripening of fruits. Research programs, the establishment of phenological orchards, and varietal selection can also contribute to reducing deficiencies in temporality.
According to the study, growing this crop is an option for the development of rural societies, especially of marginal production because of the growing demand for pitahaya in the international market, its profitability, and the need to find a substitute product for traditional crops with little profit margin.
