Are you tempted by the challenge of growing a pineapple plant yourself? The first hurdle on the way to a gardening masterpiece is letting the exotic plant take root. We're lifting the veil on this not-so-mysterious process.
How do you root a pineapple plant?
To root a pineapple plant, cut off the leaf crown with 3 cm of pulp, remove lower rows of leaves and the pulp. Let the stalk dry, place it in lime-free water and wait for 8-10 cm long roots before planting it in lean substrate.
Pineapple plants form roots in two places
The pineapple plant is not only one of the few bromeliads that thrive in the soil (terrestrial). At the same time, it has the rare talent of allowing roots to sprout from the leaf axils of its crown. In this way, the plant assimilates water and nutrients that accumulate in the rosette of leaves. Clever hobby gardeners know how to use this attribute when they want to plant a pineapple. Find out the details here.
How to root a tuft of leaves in no time at all
For the plan to succeed, you need a fresh, ripe pineapple. Make sure the fruit has not been subjected to refrigeration during transport. These specimens are sold commercially under the name 'Flying Pineapple'. Take a close look at the leaves. The foliage should be lush green and without a hint of mold. How to proceed:
- cut off the leaf crown including 3 centimeters of pulp with a sharp knife
- take off the bottom two or three rows of the leaves arranged in a circle
- Carefully remove the pulp with a spoon
- The sprout points on the stem must not be injured, because this is where the shoot will take root
Put the stalk out to dry in an airy place for some time. Then fill a glass with lime-free water. Insert the tuft of leaves so deep that the water does not reach the leaves. You can now watch the pineapple take root in the partially shaded, warm window seat.
Planting skillfully
Once the young roots have reached a length of 8-10 centimeters, it is time to plant. Half fill a pot with lean substrate, such as standard soil (€5.00 on Amazon) or cactus substrate. A handful of quartz sand or expanded clay creates the desired permeability. Form a fist and create a small hollow. Insert the rooted leaf crown into it and fill the substrate up to the lower row of leaves. After pouring, place the vessel in a bright location at temperatures of 25 to 30 degrees Celsius.
Tips & Tricks
The leaf crowns of pineapple plants root even more quickly if you fill the water glass with willow water. The natural growth hormones contained therein visibly accelerate the process. You can easily make your own willow water from cut, annual willow branches that are poured over with boiling water. Let it steep for 24 hours and strain.
