Walking through a subtropical or tropical garden, then you might observe a massive bromeliad with a massive pineapple fruit rising above the long, spiny leaves. The show-stopping growth of the pineapple (Ananas comosus) makes it the focal point of any garden. This uncommon bromeliad, the only one who produces an edible fruit, is indigenous to the West Indies and Central and South America. Hardy at U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 9 through 11, the pineapple requires protection once the forecast predicts temperatures at or below freezing.
Optimum Temperatures
The pineapple plant is generally grown in subtropical and tropical areas, preferring temperatures between 68 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. In cooler climates, a wind-protected garden situated next to a sunlit, south-facing wall might provide a warmer microclimate suitable for a pineapple plant. While pineapples tolerate dry conditions, fruit production requires regular watering.
Cool and Hot Temperatures
Although the pineapple may tolerate temperatures beyond the optimum selection, when temperatures fall below 60 degrees Fahrenheit the pineapple’s growth slows. The fruits will continue to ripen, but will require much longer than they would in a warmer climate. On the other hand, the pineapple’s growth also slows if the temperature rises above 90 degrees.
Freezing Temperatures
When temperatures fall to freezing, the pineapple plant could possibly be damaged. Red or white burn spots on the leaves and rotting fruit suggest that the plant was exposed to temperatures at or below 32 degrees Fahrenheit. Although the pineapple can tolerate very short periods of freezing or low temperatures, longer exposure may cause the passing of the plant.
Winter Protection
Pineapples are successfully grown as potted plants and also in gardens across Southern California, the Southwest and Florida. When frost threatens, however, winter protection is necessary to make sure that your pineapple plant will survive. If temperatures fall to less than 32 degrees Fahrenheit for at least a few hours, moving the plant inside may be its only chance at success. However, moving a potted pineapple plant into a greenhouse or a bright, warm sunroom might not be an option because of its size. Wrapping large-bulb vacation lights across the plant and also suspending plastic or sheets over stakes surrounding the pineapple may provide adequate warmth and protection to big specimens and those implanted in the garden.
Related Posts
