Indoor Pineapple Plant Care
The earliest evidence of pineapple dates back as far as 1200 – 800 BC, it is believed that this fruit was cultivated by the Mayas and the Aztecs. There are also documents that report that pineapples were found growing in the West Indies by Christopher Columbus, Sir Walter, Gonzalo, Fernández de Oviedo, Valdés and were used for food and making wine.
This world-famous fruit is enjoyed by so many and is used in many drinks and food recipes, there are more than 37 types of pineapples that are grown worldwide. The ornamental pineapple is one species that is among this group this pineapple type is not edible but is grown for aesthetic purposes, we will be looking at however at how to grow an indoor pineapple plant.
Sun Exposure
When growing outdoors pineapples prefer the full sun so locate an area indoors that gets at least 6-8 hours of sunlight. A windowsill will provide plenty of direct sunlight. If it is a challenge locating an area indoors to provide this amount of lighting then consider installing artificial lights known as grow lights. These lights can be purchased from your plant nursery or garden center.
Soil type
A well-drained soil that’s moist and slightly acidic is ideal, a neutral soil will do just as well. Since pineapples belong to the bromeliad family finding a blend of this sort will do also.
Water requirements
The soil should always be moist, not waterlogged which can lead to rot, never allow your pineapple to sit in water. Pineapple tends to grow slower if not getting sufficient water but can tolerate being underwater instead of overwater.
Fertilizer requirements
Feed your pineapple with a weak or diluted liquid fertilizer every month throughout the growing season, Once a year has passed and your pineapple has gotten a little older you can move to fertilize once every few months.
Temperature/Humidity
Because the pineapple plant is tropical and is used to the warm sun’s rays, indoor temperatures can be anywhere from 65 degrees Fahrenheit to 95 degrees Fahrenheit. The humidity level of your home should be well enough for your pineapple but if not lightly mist your pineapple plant with water to help with raising the humidity level.
Harvest time
I know that you’re eager to harvest your pineapple fruit but a little patience is needed because it may take as long as 24 months before you can harvest your pineapple fruit. When the skin develops a yellowish color with a sweet pineapple scent and the flesh is an orange-yellow color your pineapple is ready to harvest. It’s best to let the fruit fully ripen on the plant because once it’s picked it won’t get any sweeter although the outer skin continues to ripen.
Pineapple fun facts
Here are some pineapple fun facts
- In a single season, the pineapple produces only one fruit
- Pineapple is actually a berry
- A pineapple can stay alive and produce fruits for up to 50 years
- Pineapples are a cluster of hundreds of fruitless
- Pineapples ripen faster upside down
- The enzyme that is found in pineapple can tenderize meats
- The core ends and the skin of pineapples are not discarded in pineapple canneries but is used to make a number of product some of which include animal foods, vinegar, and alcohol
- The top of the pineapple after cleaning and drying can be planted in soil and a new pineapple plant will grow
- It’s believed that a pineapple can be tricked into flowering by using smoke
- Pineapple is made up of mostly water
The final word on indoor pineapple plant
There you have it, it’s as easy and simple as 1, 2,3, growing a pineapple plant will not cost much except for some know-how and you have come to the right place. Because these plants are slow growers you may have to wait a while before harvesting but the wait is worth it because there is no better feeling than to eat the fruits of your labor or what you have grown with your very own hands. So go for it and give it a try you will be happy with the results.
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About the author
Norman loves being in the garden, both at home and for his job....
he is 'Natures Little helper' being outdoors, growing his vegetables and flowers from an early age.
Now having spent over 22 years in the profession he want to give some of his knowledge to others...
his vast array of hints and tips you will find scattered over this site will help you no end growing plants in your garden.
As a garden enthusiast, I really liked your post. I have just moved to a sunny country where I’m planning to grow exotic fruits and vegetables besides my tomatoes and strawberries so I found your information on pineapples very useful. I’m already planting avocado and figs, so a pineapple plant will be a nice addition to my little garden.
Thank you for the tips!
It is so good to meet you and to hear you are a garden enthusiast, I am so happy to help. Wishing you all the best of success and please let me know how your garden project goes.
I love this! Pineapple is a favorite of mine (especially on pizza) and now I have it in my mind to start my own plant. Of course, one pineapple a year is not nearly enough but it would be fun to try it anyway. Thank you for the great idea!!!! Just one question, though. How big does this plant get?
I love pineapples on barbecue chicken pizza it tastes really great. These fruits at maturity can grow to about 3 and 6 feet in height and width. Hope this helps. I am happy to help and all the best to you.
Hello Norman. I really liked your site. My mother is having an indoor garden and I’ll definitely suggest your page for her garden and I loved the fun facts its informative and I really don’t know it will produce fruits for 50 years and pineapple is a berry. It is really informative and I enjoy reading your page.
Hello Raja, thanks so much for your kind words and for sharing my post with your mother. Wishing you and your mother all the best of success. Have a good day!