How to Grow Pineapple in Australia
A warm-season fruit for the long-term patch
Growing your own Pineapple is one of the more satisfying things you can do in an Australian backyard. It is rated beginner to grow. Saves ~$3-6/fruit, each plant produces one large fruit; ratoons produce subsequent crops.
This guide covers when to plant Pineapple in your region, the position and soil it likes, how to plant it, day-to-day care, the pests and diseases to watch, and how to harvest and store your crop.
When to Plant in Your Region
Pineapple is a warm-season crop, frost-tender and needs a frost-free run. In subtropical South-East Queensland it is best planted in September, October, November, December, January and February. Timing shifts with your climate, so choose your region below for a local calendar.
Position and Soil
Give Pineapple full sun (at least 6 hours a day). It does best in free-draining soil with a pH around 4.5 to 6.5. Dig through plenty of compost before planting, and mulch to hold moisture and keep weeds down. It grows happily in a pot of 40cm+, which makes it a fine choice for balconies and courtyards.
Planting
Plant Pineapple into a well-prepared hole the same depth as the rootball and twice as wide. Allow about 60 cm between plants (more for full-size trees) so each has room and airflow. Water in well, stake if needed, and keep the area weed-free while it establishes.
Grow from the crown of a supermarket pineapple, twist off, strip lower leaves, dry cut end, plant. Prefers well-drained acidic soil. Takes 18-24 months. SEQ climate is perfect.
Care
Water consistently, roughly 5 L per plant every 7 days in warm weather, less in cool or wet spells. Feed every few weeks through the growing season with a balanced organic fertiliser, and keep mulch topped up.
Pests and Diseases
Keep an eye out for Mealy bug and Root rot. The main diseases to watch are Heart rot and Fusarium wilt. Good spacing, watering at the base rather than over the leaves, and crop rotation prevent most problems. See our Pest and Disease Guide to identify and fix any issue.
Harvesting and Storage
Pineapple is typically ready to harvest within roughly 18 months once established (young plants may take a season or two longer). Bench for 2 to 3 days once ripe, fridge for up to 1 week cut.
In the Kitchen
In the kitchen, pineapple is good fresh sliced as a snack, grilled on the BBQ as a side, added to tropical salsas and stir-fries and made into pineapple jam or chutney. Nutritionally: excellent source of vitamin C and manganese and contains bromelain enzyme for digestion.
Track Your Pineapple Growing
Add pineapple to your garden in the Planting Season app and get reminders for planting, care and harvest, tuned to your region.
Open the App →Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Pineapple in Australia?
Pineapple is a warm-season crop. In subtropical regions like South-East Queensland it is best planted in September, October, November, December, January and February. Timing changes with your climate, so use the calendar above for your region.
How long does Pineapple take to grow?
Pineapple is generally ready to harvest within roughly 18 months once established (young plants may take a season or two longer).
Can I grow Pineapple in a pot?
Yes. Pineapple grows well in a container of 40cm+ with free-draining mix and regular watering.
How much sun does Pineapple need?
Give it full sun (at least 6 hours a day) for the healthiest growth and best harvest.
See also: Pineapple in the Plant Library
