The Only Guide To Growing Pineapples That You’ll Ever Need  (4 of 5)

Step 6: Wait (And Wait Some More)

Heres the part where patience really pays off. Pineapples are slow growers. It can take anywhere from 18 months to 2 years for your plant to produce fruit. During this time, youll see the leaves grow longer and denser, forming a rosette. Eventually, a flower spike will appear in the centerand thats your signal that fruit is on its way!

Step 7: Harvest Time!

When your pineapple finally starts to ripen, youll know its ready by the change in color and smell. A fully ripened pineapple will turn a rich golden-yellow and give off a sweet, fragrant scent. Gently tug the fruitif it resists, give it a bit more time. When its ready, use a knife to cut the fruit from the plant, leaving a bit of stem behind. Congratulationsyouve grown your own pineapple! Enjoy the fruit of your labor, whether you eat it fresh, grill it, or add it to a tropical smoothie.