How to Grow a Pineapple

Pineapples are easy-to-grow houseplants that are fun to watch grow. Their leafy top can be removed and rooted to produce an entirely new plant which will eventually bear fruit. As tropical plants, pineapples need plenty of sunlight and well-draining soil mixes; you can plant one either outdoors or in containers; just remember to water regularly afterward! Although pineapple plants tend to attract pests such as mealybugs and ants, you should still apply insecticides regularly in order to keep the soil moist enough.

A common way of growing pineapples is to transplant their crown from store-bought fruit, when ripe. Choose one with green crown and at least an inch of stem attached. Let the cut end dry out for several days so as to prevent rot before placing the crown in a glass of water until roots begin forming; finally transferring your new pineapple plant into well-draining soil for growth.

Once your pineapple top is securely planted in soil, water it sparingly to avoid overwatering it and rotting its stems. A spray bottle or gentle pouring will work fine; simply pack around it gently afterwards so it stays soaked into its soil roots.

Indoor or outdoor, pineapple cultivation requires full sunlight with either south or east-facing windows and acidic soil (pH 4.5 to 6.5); loamy soil mixed with sand and perlite can make for ideal growing conditions.

As your plant expands, increase watering frequency to ensure soil remains moist. Once fully rooted, move to outside or large pot and fertilize with general organic fertilizer as soon as possible to avoid pineapple rust which causes brown spots on leaves and fruit; soil with high nitrogen levels encourages this disease.

As your pineapple plant matures, it may need a stake to stay upright and produce suckers which can be removed to form new pineapple plants. After several years have passed, your fruit should be ready for harvesting; when at about 90% yellow and firm to the touch - when fully ripened its skin turns golden-brown and its sweetness makes its presence known! Remember to harvest again after seeing this change of color to increase chances for another harvest from this same plant!