Place the crown in the soil and firmly press down the soil around the base trying not to get soil into the leaves. Fertilize every two or three months and water once a week. If your pineapple is in a pot bring it indoors if there is a chance of frost. You should see the fruit starting to develop after about 18 months. For more information on growing pineapples contact the County Extension Office.
Fresh pineapple is low in calories and fat and contains no cholesterol.
A pineapple is ready to eat when harvested. The fruit shell will gradually turn yellow beginning at the base of the fruit. Eventually the fruit will become completely yellow if left standing on the kitchen counter for a few days or if left on the plant. The flavor will change slightly also but there will be no increase in sugars as occurs with some fruit that is allowed to ripen at room temperature such as bananas, peaches and pears. When buying a fresh pineapple, look for a crown with crisp, fresh-looking leaves and a bright colored fruit shell, though the fruit shell color is not always a reliable indicator of maturity.