Growing a pineapple from the top of a store-bought fruit is possible by preparing the crown, rooting it in water, and then planting it in soil.
Here's a step-by-step guide on how to grow a pineapple from the top:
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Prepare the Pineapple Top (Crown):
- Twist off the leafy top (crown) of a ripe pineapple. If twisting doesn't work easily, you can cut it off, but be sure to remove all the fruit flesh to prevent rotting.
- Remove the bottom few layers of leaves. This exposes the stem, where roots will emerge. This step may be referred to as peeling off layers.
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Rooting in Water:
- Place the pineapple crown in a glass or jar of water, ensuring that only the exposed stem is submerged, not the leaves.
- Place the jar in a bright location, such as a windowsill, but avoid direct sunlight initially.
- Change the water every few days to keep it fresh.
- Roots should start to form in a few weeks to a couple of months.
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Planting:
- Once the roots are a few inches long, plant the crown in a well-draining potting mix. A mixture of potting soil, sand, and perlite works well.
- Choose a pot that's appropriately sized for the crown and future growth.
- Water the newly planted pineapple top thoroughly.
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Care:
- Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged.
- Provide plenty of sunlight. Pineapples need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
- Maintain warm temperatures (ideally between 65-85°F or 18-29°C).
- Fertilize lightly every few months with a balanced fertilizer.
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Patience:
- It can take several months to a year (or even longer) for the pineapple plant to mature and potentially produce a fruit.
