|
Q: I have seen some people posting about growing the tops of pineapples
in pots. Could someone please explain how to do it? What kind of soil
do I use? How much light would it need? What size pot do I use? I
really have never had much luck with plants, but if I use something I
was just going to throw away, I haven't lost much.
Hardiness Zone: 5b
Bubbasmom from Paris, Ohio
A: Bubbasmom,
Find yourself a nice, fresh mature organic pineapple at the supermarket. Take the pineapple by the leafy crown and twist off the top (it will come off with a little bit of the stalk still attached). Seal off any openings from potential decay by letting it dry out for about 5 days. Then bare the stalk by removing the lower 15 or so leaves from the crown by pulling them in a downward fashion. If you see some tiny roots forming at the base of these leaves, try not to damage them. Success will ultimately depend on the stalk rooting, not rotting, so if you would like to, let the stalk dry for a couple of more days.
Start with a 6-inch pot filled with 2 parts potting mix and 1 part perlite or peat moss for drainage. If you prefer, lightly dust the stalk with a commercial rooting powder before planting. Place the pot in bright light(at least 6 hrs per day), but not direct sunlight and keep the soil warm and moist, but not wet. You may need to wait 2-3 months before seeing substantial roots and new growth.
When you see new growth (light green in color), repot to a gallon-sized container. Use less perlite/peat moss at this stage, and start fertilizing once per month during the growing season. You can put pots outside during the summer and bring them in to over winter. Plan on the plant remaining in a gallon-sized pot for at least 1 year.
If you have successfully reached this stage, you can move the plant into a five-gallon planter, adding in some manure or nutrient rich compost. Be sure to allow plenty of drainage and keep the soil moist, but not wet. After about a season at this stage you will see a large surge in growth. Watch for short-lived delicate blue flowers, followed by fruit in 3-4 months.
About The Author: Ellen Brown is our Green Living and Gardening Expert. Click here to ask Ellen a question! Ellen Brown is an environmental writer and photographer and the owner of Sustainable Media, an environmental media company that specializes in helping businesses and organizations promote eco-friendly products and services. Contact her on the web at http://www.sustainable-media.com
| 
