How to grow a pineapple

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How to grow a pineapple
How to grow a pineapple from a pineapple crown Pineapple is one of the world’s most popular exotic fruit. They are grown on plantations in Hawaii, the Caribbean, South America and in other tropical countries. But do you know that you can grow a pineapple plant even in temperate zones or cooler climates? You may not be able to grow them outside during the colder months but you can certainly do so under controlled conditions in the summer and they are very popular as indoor plants. Pineapples originated in the Guyana shield in South America and belong to the bromeliad family which includes over 3,000 species. Your home grown pineapple may not grow as big as those grown in their natural habitat, however, it is a fun exercise, and with a little effort you can grow a pineapple. If not, you will have a beautiful bromeliad plant. Image by Joan Schroeder
Instructions
Step 1 Select a pineapple Choose a pineapple that is fresh and firm. Check firmness by pressing your thumb at various parts on the pineapple to check for soft spots. The crown should be green and free of any dryness, discoloration, cuts or bruises. Step 2 Remove the Crown Place the pineapple on its side on a flat surface. With a sharp knife cut about a half inch from the base of the crown. Use the pineapple portion for eating or cooking or baking. Remove all pineapple flesh from the base of the crown using a knife. Step 3 Root the pineapple crown There are several methods of rooting the crown but one proven method is to place the base of the pineapple crown in a container of water. Half fill a container with clean water and place the pineapple crown inside but not touching the water. Place the container in an area of the home at room temperature. You will need to change the water every 2 days. Step 4 Planting your pineapple Three to four weeks later you will notice that the crown has rooted. It is now time to plant the crown. Choose a container with enough space to allow for root expansion and fill with potting soil suitable for plants of the bromialiad family. Water and place the pot in a sunny window. Step 5 Caring for your pineapple plant The pineapple plant soil should always be slightly moist not wet. Check your plant regularly for any defects, signs of insect infestation or drying of the leaves and deal with the problem immediately. You may need to transplant to another pot or outdoors. Ensure the soil mixture you use is suitable for pineapples. Good drainage should always be a consideration as is temperature control. Related Helium Articles How to grow a pineapple from the top of a grocery store pineapple by Susan Klatz Beal If you dread the prospect of spending loads of money on houseplants, never knowing how successful you will be at growing them, consider taking advantage of some of the things you get at the grocery store. You can take the top of a pineapple and actu... More> Best growing conditions for pineapples by Silva Payne Pineapples are exotic fruits that are available all year round in our supermarkets. The challenge of growing your own pineapple tree may seem unnecessary. However, eating your home-grown pineapple makes the fruit taste so much sweeter when you know ... More> Growing tips: Pineapple Prince Daffodils by Gail Seymour Pineapple Prince daffodils are unusual in that their mid-lemon colored petals with form a typical 3 to 4 inch perianth are darker than the pale lemon large cups, at least when the flowers open. The cups themselves are the typical frilled widening co... More>	Things Needed 1 fresh and firm pineapple A sharp knife Bromiliad potting soil Glass container 1 flower pot A lot of patience Tips & Warnings Place small rocks at the bottom of pot to increase drainage. Do not over water; soil should feel slightly dry to the touch before watering again. How to grow a pineapple inside! So simple, yet so fun and they even produce pineapples! Do this with your kids. No knives, mess or skill involved. Great for adults too. And the best part is ......(insert drum roll here).....you can eat the pineapple after planting the top. NOTHING gets wasted!

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Jaimela King
Helium member since Jan 07, 07
Number of Guides: 13

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