Wendy’s Wanderings
July 11, 2024
Do you like piña coladas?
Growing up on our South Florida farm, we always had at least a dozen pineapple plants in various stages of growth. This ensured a steady supply of delicious ripe pineapples to enjoy. If you’ve never tasted a perfectly ripe pineapple straight from the plant, you’re missing out on a true delicacy.
While pineapples often evoke images of Hawaii or other tropical locales, they have been cultivated in Florida since the late 1800s. By 1900, Florida had become one of the world’s leading pineapple producers, with numerous commercial farms across the subtropical parts of the state. However, freezes, cultural challenges, and competition from Cuba prompted Florida farmers to explore other profitable crops.
This terrestrial bromeliad is quite easy to incorporate into your edible landscape. Start with a pineapple top from a fruit you’ve purchased or received (you can ask your produce manager for tops). Remove any remaining fruit and a few lower leaves, allowing the base to dry for a day or two to seal. Then, plant it in well-drained soil and exercise patience — pineapples typically take 18 to 24 months to mature. I usually grow mine in 7-gallon pots with full sun exposure, providing cold protection during freezes and minimal fertilizer. I usually harvest at least one fruit each summer, if I can beat the critters to it. Can you imagine waiting over a year for a fruit, only to find it partially eaten by a squirrel or raccoon? Of course, you can relate if you’re a gardener!
I recently had the pleasure of speaking with Phil and Wendy Sollecito, Charlotte County Master Gardener Volunteers, about their successful pineapple cultivation. They are passionate about growing delicious fruits and vegetables in their yard and generously sharing their knowledge with fellow gardeners. When I mentioned my frustration with animals attacking my fruit, they introduced me to their method of protecting developing pineapples with wire cages. This allows the fruit to ripen fully without interference from raccoons. I’m eager to try this method myself.
There are several pineapple varieties worth trying. If you’re growing from grocery store tops, you’re likely growing ‘Del Monte Gold’ or ‘Tropical Gold’. The ‘Smooth Cayenne’, which we grew when I was young, remains popular. Other varieties to consider include ‘Red Spanish’ or ‘Sugar Loaf’, known for producing large, flavorful fruits.
If you have the space and patience, consider adding pineapples to your edible landscape. The wait will be well worth it for a fully ripe pineapple, which Phil Sollecito claims is the most delicious fruit you can enjoy. For comprehensive information on growing pineapples in your Florida yard, refer to Dr. Johnathan Crane’s Ask IFAS publication, “Pineapple Growing in the Florida Home Landscape.”
— Wendy Wilber
