“Pineapples remind us that even the prickliest things can have the sweetest hearts.”

Jason F. Wright

Have you ever seen a pineapple plant bloom? It is probably the prettiest flower I have ever seen. Incredibly unique, both in it’s appearance and in it’s behavior. You see, pineapples don’t require pollination to produce fruit. This is called parthenocarpic fruit development. Pollinated pineapples would have seeds so pollination is actually avoided in most cultivated pineapples.

Pineapple bloom on my pineapple plant.

Did you know that a pineapple is actually a compilation of berries that grow and fuse together? Each of those little buds on the flower develop into a berry which then come together as they grow, fusing into one fruit – the pineapple! Those scales on the outside of a pineapple are from the individual flowers. Each pineapple plant will only grow one pineapple and it can take 4-6 months for the fruit to ripen on the plant.

Watching a pineapple plant bloom and slowly grow fruit is a beautiful, but long, process. If you want a large harvest, don’t grow pineapples. If you want a quick harvest, don’t grow pineapples. However, if you are in it for the long haul, and are willing to wait however long it takes, and willing to work through that spiky exterior to reach the sweetness inside – you will find the effort and time is worth it for that hidden center full of sunshine and joy. There is Victory after overcoming challenges!

Want to grow your own pineapple?

You can easily grow a pineapple, even in the Midwest. Start with the crown of a pineapple that you’ve cut off of the fruit. Peel away the first few layers of leaves. You may find that there are already some roots starting to grow. Put the pineapple crown in a glass of water and watch the roots grow. Once you have a good start to the roots, transplant into some potting soil and water like you would a succulent – infrequent, deep watering. Keep the pineapple plant somewhere sunny and warm – they love it hot! I keep my pineapple plants in a greenhouse during the summer and in my house under grow lights when the nighttime temperatures are in danger of being below 50 or so. I highly suggest trying homegrown pineapple at least once – it is delicious!

“Be a pineapple: Stand tall, wear a crown, and be sweet on the inside.”

Katherine Gaskin