Growing a Pineapple plant is a fun and practical project that can interest the whole family; not only will you produce a beautiful plant for your home, but you may be rewarded with a delicious Pineapple at the end!

Step 1: Purchase a Pineapple:

Go to your local grocery store or supermarket and purchase a healthy, green topped pineapple. Ideally inside the crown (bushy top) there will be small green leaves growing; however some growers pull this new growth out before shipping the fruits. Bring the Pineapple home and begin the following steps as soon as possible to avoid deterioration of the plant.

Step 2: Remove the Crown:

Cut a couple of inches below the crown, some fruit will remain attached.

Then tightly grip the fruit and crown and twist in opposite directions, the fruit will break away from the crown.

If there is any remaining fruit carefully trim it off with a knife, because if any fruit is left the crown will rot and die.

Step 3: Peel Back Some Leaves:

Peel back the first few layers of leaves, this may reveal some roots.

This makes it easier for roots to form and it also means the plant uses less energy on the leaves.

Step 4: Place in Water:

Put the crown in a glass of water, after doing this place the glass in a fairly dark area to encourage root growth rather than leaf growth.

Roots usually start to form within about a week.

Step 5: Potting:

A strong root system means that the plant should be potted in soil.

Carefully transplant it into the pot and make sure the roots are held under the soil securely.

Some people recommend special soil mixes but I have found that regular potting mix is fine.

Water thoroughly but allow soil to become fairly dry before watering again. Remember that the Pineapple also absorbs water through the leaves.

Step 6: Extra Information:

Your plant may not grow leaves quickly, the one pictured didn't do anything for a couple of months, I almost threw it away, but then it sent off a shoot. It is now very large and healthy. In other words be patient, you will be rewarded!

After roughly 2 years you can force your plant to fruit. Chop up very ripe apples, and place chunks in the plant pot. Then cover it with a plastic bag, a fruit will usually form fairly quickly.