Paraguay and southern Brazil are considered the homeland of pineapples, but nowadays most of these fruits are grown in Southeast Asia. This tropical plant can be found even in arid areas, as pineapple retains enough moisture in the leaves, accumulating it even from rainwater.
Pineapple in nature
Pineapples are common in South America, Mexico, Australia, India, as well as the Philippines and other countries with hot tropical climates. In Russia, this fruit can be grown only in the Krasnodar Territory, creating additional favorable conditions for this.
Pineapples grow both in the wild and on plantations. In the jungle, they are food for many animals, and in the fields, pineapples are grown for commercial purposes and the development of the country's economy. The USA, Thailand and the Philippines are the leading exporters of tropical fruits.
It is widely believed that pineapples grow on palms, but this is a big misconception. This fruit is a perennial herb that looks more like a shrub. In adulthood, in the open field, the pineapple reaches one and a half meters in height, has a low, earthy stem with hard long leaves. On one bush, one fruit is formed, like a cabbage.
In the first year after planting, the plant is actively gaining growth, the trunk thickens, forming a large number of closely intertwined leaves. The hard, fleshy leaves are up to 70 cm long and have sharp thorns at the edges. After about a year of active growth, the pineapple begins to bloom. From its crown, an inflorescence grows, consisting of many flowers, the shades of which vary from red to purple, depending on the variety. In each of the flowers, berries develop, which, closing together, form a whole pineapple fruit.
Growing at home
The exotic fruit can be grown at home, but it will cost a lot of effort and money. For its growth, it is necessary to provide a favorable temperature regime, timely watering and sufficient lighting. Pineapple is propagated by seeds, side shoots, and also with the help of a trimmed bunch of leaves from the crown of the fruit. The latter method is the most popular for planting a new plant. To do this, the trimmed bunch with leaves is treated with activated carbon and placed in water for several days. It must be wrapped in cellophane or covered with a glass cover to retain heat and maintain a microclimate. When the first roots appear, the plant is transplanted into a clay pot with soil, drainage and fertilizer. For better rooting, it should also be covered with cellophane. The ground temperature must be at least 26 degrees. It is necessary to maintain adequate lighting in the room or use additional lamps. After a few weeks, the plant will begin to give new shoots, after a few months it will bloom, and only after a year you can expect a real fruit - pineapple.
