Normas preliminares dris y nutrientes limitantes para el cultivo de Pitahaya Roja en Ecuador

Abstract

This study establishes preliminary standards of the Diagnostic and Recommendation Integrated System (DRIS) for Hylocereus spp. in Ecuador, with the objective of identifying limiting nutrients and optimizing fertilization. One hundred and twenty-one foliar samples collected between 2017 and 2024 in different producing regions were analyzed. Macronutrient (N, P, K, Ca, Mg, S) and micronutrient (B, Cu, Fe, Mn, Zn) concentrations were determined by atomic absorption spectrometry and chemical digestion. DRIS indices and the average Nutritional Balance Index (IBNm) were calculated to evaluate the nutritional status of the crop. The results indicated that nitrogen (N) and calcium (Ca) were the main limiting nutrients due to deficiency, while manganese (Mn) showed excessive accumulations. Significant correlations were found between DRIS indices and foliar levels of Zn, Mg and Cu, highlighting their influence on productivity. No significant relationship was observed between IBNm and yield, suggesting that edaphoclimatic and agronomic factors influence productive variability. The DRIS standards established allow a more accurate diagnosis of the nutritional status of the crop, providing a frame of reference to improve fertilization efficiency. The study confirms the usefulness of DRIS in the nutritional management of pitahaya in Ecuador and its potential to optimize production. It is recommended to complement foliar analysis with soil fertility studies and to adjust fertilization strategies according to local conditions. The implementation of this approach will contribute to improve the sustainability of the crop and strengthen its competitiveness in international markets.