Careful Cultivation Can Yield Pineapples

When visitors see what Everett Weerheim has growing in his Cypress garden, they’re often amazed.

Twelve years ago after a trip to Hawaii, Weerheim started growing pineapples. Since then his plants have produced plenty of fresh, tasty fruit.

“People can’t believe it when they see fruit on my pineapple plants, because we’re not in Hawaii,” Weerheim said. “The truth is, pineapples are very easy to grow here. Not only do they fruit, they also make a nice ornamental plant.”

For successful pineapple propagation and growing, Weerheim offers the following tips:

* Cut off the top of any pineapple, leaving about a half-inch of meat. Place meat section of pineapple in a solution made from a small amount of rooting hormone and water. Leave pineapple in solution for four to six weeks until it begins to form small roots. Add water to solution if it dries out before roots form.

* Plant rooted pineapple top in a 5- to 15-gallon pot filled with 50% potting soil and 50% garden soil. Cover the roots with soil, leaving the foliage exposed. Place in full sun in a protected location, such as up against the house.

* Expect to see 6 to 8 inches of growth in the first year. The pineapple will eventually grow 2- to 2 1/2-feet tall. In two years, it should begin forming a pineapple at the center of the crown, which will mature in an additional six to eight months. Before the fruit ripens, the plant will send out baby plants that will take over when the mother plant is done.

* Keep the pineapple plant well watered, but not soggy. Fertilize twice a year with a well-balanced food, especially when you see fruit forming.