This is how pineapples grow.

If you thought that they grow on tree, you're wrong.

The pineapple is a delicious fruit, favorite among many people. The mixed taste of sweet and sour makes it the second most favorite tropical fruit in the US, just next to the banana. Not only does it taste great, but it has immense health benefits as well. The fruit helps in digestion and has some natural anti-inflammatory properties. Fresh pineapples are rich in ‘bromelain’ that provides relief from acute sinusitis, arthritis, gout, and sore throat. The fruit is also rich in manganese. Just one cup of freshly cut pineapple can provide up to 73% of the daily recommended amount of manganese to the body! A pineapple also helps your gums to stay healthy and is known to strengthen the bones. 

The fruit is also a great source for vitamin C that helps to boost the general immune system of the body. Growing a pineapple is not so difficult if you take proper care of the plant. If you are planning to grow pineapples, but do not know how to go about it, then here are some tips to help you successfully grow this delicious fruit.

A great way to continue to enjoy that delicious pineapple you just ate is to grow your own. 

 It doesn’t take much- just time and  patience. Pineapple plant is a “kitchen scrap plant”  that can be started by simply rooting the crown (pineapple top) and planting it in soil.  Not only will you have a decorative plant but you will also produce a sweet edible pineapple that will give you the satisfaction in knowing that you grew it yourself. It’s a great project to start with the kids!

Pineapples are great, a high mineral and vitamin content, sweet and still easy on the calories. Growing the Pineapple fruit is a great gardening endeavor and cooking adventure at the same time. This "How To" guide will assist you to grow this fruit successfully, and it's easy.

 If you thought it was only possible for people living in the tropics to grow those tasty pineapple chunks then think again. Pineapples certainly are grown in the tropics, but they can be grown in temperate climates if you have a sheltered spot where the frost does not penetrate. And if you don’t have that, then you can grow a pineapple in a pot and take it indoors through the winter.

Use a pineapple top (crown) with healthy, unbruised leaves. Twist or cut off the spiky top of the pineapple. Peel off about a fourth of the lower leaves to expose the stem.

 You will see small brown bumps that will eventually become the roots (root primordia). Leave the pineapple top in a shaded area on the kitchen counter to dry for several days and then plant it in 6 inch pot with well-drained soil. You can brush rooting hormone on the bottom to speed up rooting (optional). Firm the soil around the plant to secure it in place and water. Keep the soil slightly moist. If the environment is dry, enclose the potted plant  inside a plastic bag to increase humidity and speed up rooting. If kept at 70F (21C) it should start to root within 2-4 weeks.