Pineapple
The pineapple does not grow on a tree, but in the heart of a plant measuring approximately 1 m high and 1.2 m in diameter. In the midst of the many varieties, there are two best known on the market: the cayenne and the queen or victoria.
The pineapple is a perennial herb: the stem, with very short internodes, carries thick leaves in the shape of a gutter, grouped in rosette from which the inflorescence emerges. “Eyes” line the surface of the pineapple. Above the fruit develops the terminal bud (crown).
Some varieties
– The cayenne: the “biggest” of the family and the most widespread. Its yellow, firm and fibrous flesh is acidic, sweet and juicy. Better to remove your heart which can be hard.
– The queen or victoria: smaller, it hides under its dark yellow bark a golden, juicy, soft and very fragrant flesh. No need to take her heart away, still tender.
Multiplication Pineapples can be planted in rows or individually. Pineapple is propagated vegetatively, that is to say by suckers. Indeed, after the fruit has been harvested, auxiliary buds of the stem form a rejection which will in turn bear fruit. They can be cut about a month after picking the fruit. It is necessary to remove a few leaves at the base and let it dry in the sun for a day or two before planting it. Harvesting takes place approximately 12 months after planting. Many “vegetative generations” can thus succeed one another.
It is also possible to use the crown of the fruit to have a new pineapple. It must be cut leaving about 2 cm from the fruit at the base and let dry one or two days in the sun before planting. Harvest takes place after 18 months about.
Harvest Pick the pineapple only when it is ripe. When picked while it is still green, the pineapple will not become sweeter as is the case with other types of fruit. The more abundant the sun as the fruit grows, the sweeter the pineapple.
Climate, Soil, Exhibition Pineapple acclimates to many areas. Its water needs are around 1,200 to 1,500 mm, well distributed throughout the year. Its root system being fragile, the pineapple requires loose, well-ventilated soil.
