Growing Pineapple from a Crown: Step-by-Step for Home Gardeners

Turn a store-bought pineapple top into a tropical houseplant that may eventually fruit.

Prep the Crown

Twist off leafy top. Trim base to expose root buds (dots). Strip lower leaves ¾″. Dry 1 week—callus prevents rot.

12″ pot, drainage, gravel base, potting mix + compost. Plant crown, firm soil. Bright window. Water weekly—moist, not wet.

Native to Paraguay/Brazil. Drought-tolerant, heat-loving, frost-intolerant (<28°F). Fruit in 2–3 years if conditions allow.

Low risk, high novelty. Great for kids. Even without fruit, striking foliage plant.

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