Pineapples are more than just a sweet, tangy treat from the tropics—they’re also surprisingly easy to grow at home. And here’s the fun part: you don’t even need soil to get started.
Yes, you can grow a pineapple plant right in a jar of water, making it a perfect project for small spaces, beginners, or anyone looking for a little greenery in their home. Here’s how to do it step-by-step.
Step 1: Choose the Right Pineapple
Start with a fresh, healthy pineapple from the store. Look for one with vibrant green leaves that feel firm to the touch. Avoid fruits with wilted, yellowing, or brown-tipped leaves—they may be past their prime and less likely to root successfully.
Step 2: Remove and Prep the Crown
- Twist off the top (the leafy crown) by gripping the leaves firmly and giving it a gentle twist until it detaches from the fruit.
- Peel off the bottom few layers of leaves—about 1 to 2 inches worth—to reveal the stem underneath. This is where new roots will form.
Let the crown dry for a day or two. This helps prevent rotting when it goes into the water.
Step 3: Rooting the Pineapple in Water
- Fill a glass or jar with water and submerge only the stem, leaving the leaves dry above the rim.
- Use toothpicks if needed to suspend the crown so the base sits just in the water without the leaves touching it.
- Place the jar in a sunny spot—a windowsill that gets 6–8 hours of light a day is ideal.
- Change the water every 2–3 days to keep it fresh and discourage mold or bacteria.
In about 2–3 weeks, you’ll begin to see thin roots sprouting from the base.
Step 4: Transplanting to Soil
Once the roots are 3–4 inches long, it’s time to move your pineapple to soil:
- Choose a 12-inch pot with drainage holes.
- Fill it with a well-draining potting mix—cactus or succulent soil works great.
- Plant the rooted crown in the center, covering the base of the leaves with soil.
- Water thoroughly, but avoid overwatering. The soil should stay moist, not soggy.
- Place your pot in a warm, sunny area to keep your pineapple happy and growing.
Caring for Your Pineapple Plant
Pineapples love sunlight and warmth, so keep your plant in a bright spot. Water it regularly, but always allow the top layer of soil to dry out between waterings to prevent rot.
With patience and care, your plant can thrive—and though it may take a couple of years to produce fruit, the process is rewarding and fun, especially for kids or first-time gardeners.
Why Do This?
Growing a pineapple in a glass of water is a straightforward, space-efficient way to reconnect with nature and have a fresh start with something you would usually throw into your compost bin.
So when you enjoy a fresh, juicy pineapple, save the crown and try this easy DIY. You just may end up with a tropical houseplant—and potentially your own home-grown fruit!
Happy growing! 🌱🍍
