Grow Pineapples in Six Easy Steps

Did you know that you can grow pineapples here in Florida? Pineapples can be grown in zones 8-11 here in the USA. They will not grow in areas that dip below freezing for long periods of time.

The Pineapple or "Ananas comosus" is a tropical plant called a bromeliad. They do best in areas that have steady warm temperatures most of the year and are protected from freezing. There are many varieties of pineapple, 'Smooth Cayenne' is the most common pineapple grown in these parts.

It's easy to start your own pineapple plant by saving the top section of a pineapple. It’ll take 15 to 32 months for your pineapple plant to really take off so be patient. From bloom to fruit is about 5 to 7 months or when the pineapple is mostly yellow.

1. Get your favorite pineapple from the organic grocery or preferably from a neighbor who grows organically. Some farmers markets may have them as well.

2. Cut off the crown from the top of the fruit.

3. Allow the bottom of the crown to dry out for a day or two.

4. Plant in sandy well-drained soil and in full sun. You could try this in a large container if you like, just make sure it drains well.

5. Water weekly. Pineapples, like most Bromeliads, prefer water in their vase-like tops.

6. Once the young plant is established, pour a cup of diluted water mixed with liquid fish fertilizer into the top of the plant once a month.

Important: Pineapples get their nutrients thru their tops. Avoid getting any dirt or sand into the buds at the top of the plant as it could kill it. Mealy worms, Red spiders, and nematodes are the pineapples biggest pests.

These are some photos I took at a neighbor's little organic mini-farm while delivering my hens eggs to barter for his produce.

Mature Pineapple Plant waiting to turn yellow

Not ready for harvest

All images and text owned by @mother2chicks