Want to grow your own pineapple? It’s easier than you think. With just a store-bought pineapple, a sunny spot, and a little patience, you can grow this tropical fruit right at home.
What You’ll Need to Know:
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Twist off the crown from a ripe, healthy pineapple.
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Let it dry for a week to prevent rot.
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Root the crown in water until roots reach 3 inches.
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Transfer it to well-draining soil and keep it in sunlight.
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Water when soil feels dry and fertilize monthly.
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Wait 1–3 years for fruit to grow—worth it!
Step 1: Pick the Right Pineapple
Choose one with green leaves, golden skin, and a sweet scent. Avoid underripe (hard, green) or overripe (squishy, smelly) fruits. Check for black spots—those are pests.
Step 2: Remove the Crown
Hold the fruit in one hand, twist the leaves with the other. If needed, cut the top off, then gently strip a few lower leaves to expose the stem.
Step 3: Let It Dry
Place the crown upside down for 1 week. This dries the stem and prevents rot when rooting or planting.
Step 4: Root in Water
Place the crown in a glass of water, using toothpicks to suspend it. Set it in bright, indirect light and change the water every few days. Roots will grow in 3–6 weeks.
Step 5: Pot It in Soil
Once roots are 3 in (7 cm) long, plant the crown in a 6-inch pot with well-draining soil. Water thoroughly and keep the base just above the soil line.
Step 6: Sun & Water
Keep your plant in bright light—ideally 6+ hours of direct sun. Water weekly or when the top 1–2 inches of soil feel dry.
Step 7: Fertilize Monthly
Use a 10-10-10 water-soluble fertilizer once or twice a month in spring and summer, and monthly in cooler months.
Step 8: Be Patient
Your pineapple may take 1–3 years to fruit. You’ll first see a red cone, then purple-blue flowers, followed by the fruit. When ripe, cut it just below the base.
Growing a pineapple from scratch takes time, but the process is surprisingly simple and super satisfying. With a little care, sunshine, and patience, your kitchen-grown fruit will be worth the wait.
