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Pineapple

Ananas comosus · Bromeliaceae

Description​

The pineapple is a tropical plant with edible fruit and is known for its striking appearance. The plant typically grows to about 1.0 to 1.5 meters tall and produces a single large pineapple fruit, which is characterized by its rough, spiky skin and sweet, juicy flesh.

Where it Grows​

Planting​

When to Plant​

  • Optimal planting time is during the warm months, generally from spring to early summer.

How to Plant​

  1. Select a healthy crown from a fresh pineapple.
  2. Cut the crown a few centimeters below the leaves.
  3. Allow it to dry for a couple of days before planting.
  4. Plant in well-draining soil, burying the crown about an inch deep.

Planting Calendar​

  • Plant outdoors: 2–4 weeks after the last frost
Plant
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Pineapple
Plant out: Apr 24 – May 14
Plant outBased on zone 6: last frost around Apr 10, first frost around Oct 25.
  • Plant out: Apr 24 – May 14

Plan several plants together, or use your own frost dates →

Care​

Watering​

  • Water regularly, ensuring the soil remains moist but not waterlogged.
  • Reduce watering during cooler months.

Weeding​

  • Regularly check for weeds, especially during the growing season. Hand-pulling is recommended.

Mulching​

  • Apply a layer of organic mulch to retain moisture and suppress weed growth.

Fertilizing​

  • Fertilize every 6 weeks during the growing season using a balanced fertilizer.

Thinning​

  • Thin out any overcrowded plants to ensure adequate air circulation.

Pest Management​

  • Monitor for pests such as mealybugs and aphids. Use organic pesticides as needed.

Harvesting​

  • Harvest when the fruit turns a golden yellow color and emits a sweet fragrance, typically 18-24 months after planting.

Growing in Containers​

Grows well in a pot of at least 20 litres (5.3 US gallons), with drainage holes. Can be grown indoors as a houseplant.

Propagation​

From cuttings​

  1. Twist the leafy crown off a ripe pineapple.
  2. Remove any attached fruit flesh and several lower leaves.
  3. Let the exposed stem dry for one to three days.
  4. Plant the stem in a well-draining potting mix.
  5. Keep it warm and water lightly until it roots.

From suckers​

  1. Wait until a sucker on the parent plant is about 15–30 cm long.
  2. Detach it carefully at its base.
  3. Let the cut surface dry for a day or two.
  4. Plant it in well-draining potting mix and water lightly.

From offsets​

  1. Find a slip growing on the fruit stalk below the pineapple.
  2. Wait until it has several sturdy leaves.
  3. Twist it off and let its base dry for a day or two.
  4. Plant it in well-draining potting mix and keep it warm.

Common Problems​

  • Root Rot: Ensure proper drainage to prevent waterlogging.
  • Fruit Fly Infestation: Use traps or organic methods to control the population.

Pests and diseases: Mealybugs, Root Rot, Crown Rot, Frost Damage

Nutrition​

Nutritional Benefits​

  • Rich in vitamins C and B6
  • Contains antioxidants and enzymes (bromelain) that aid digestion.

Nutritional Composition (per 100g)​

NutrientAmount
Calories50 kcal
Carbohydrates13.1 g
Sugars9.85 g
Dietary Fiber1.4 g
Fat0.12 g
Protein0.54 g
Vitamin C47.8 mg
Manganese0.9 mg

Varieties​

  • Smooth Cayenne
  • Queen Pineapple
  • Red Spanish
  • Sugarloaf Pineapple

Health Benefits​

  • Boosts immune system
  • Aids in digestion due to bromelain
  • Anti-inflammatory properties

Fun Facts​

  • Pineapples take about 18-24 months to grow.
  • The name "pineapple" was first used in 1398 to describe pine cones.
  • Pineapples are a symbol of hospitality in many cultures.