Pineapple

The Pineapple 

 The Tropical Sun Ritual (Lighting)

Pineapples are true sun worshippers. They need more light than most indoor plants.

• The Rule: Provide at least six hours of direct, intense sunlight daily. This means the brightest south or southwest-facing window you have.

• The Triumph: If you want a pineapple to fruit indoors (a rare but possible triumph), this light requirement is non-negotiable. If you can't provide this, consider supplementing with a bright grow light.

• Summer Vacation: If temperatures are reliably above $50^{\circ}$F ($10^{\circ}$C) at night, place your pineapple outdoors in the full sun for the summer months. It will thrive!

 The Feast & Famine Cycle (Watering)

As a bromeliad, the pineapple can handle a lot of water, but only if its base is allowed to dry out.

• The Technique: Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom. Then, allow the top two inches of soil to dry out completely before watering again.

• The Bromeliad Difference: Unlike most plants, the pineapple's cup-like rosette (the center leaves) can hold water. Keep a small amount of water in the base, flushing it weekly to prevent stagnation and rot.

 The Gourmet Meal Plan (Feeding)

Pineapples are heavy feeders and need consistent nutrients to grow and potentially fruit.

• The Mix: During the growing season (Spring through early Fall), feed every two to four weeks with a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer.

• Application: Apply the fertilizer directly to the soil, but also lightly mist or pour a highly diluted solution directly into the central rosette—the pineapple absorbs nutrients through its leaves, too!

 From Crown to Glory (The Planting)

If you're starting from a grocery store pineapple, here's the best way to prepare the crown:

1. Twist: Grasp the leafy crown firmly and twist it off the fruit.

2. Peel: Remove the bottom 1-2 inches of the small, lower leaves to expose the root nodules and allow the base to dry.

3. Cure: Let the crown sit out in a dry spot for 3 to 7 days until the base is completely dry and calloused over. This prevents rot.

4. Plant: Place the cured base directly into a pot of well-draining soil and water lightly. Keep it warm and in bright light. Roots should form in 6-8 weeks.