Growing Guide: 'White Jade' Pineapple

Plant Type:	Perennial Tropical Fruit
Harvest Season:	18-24 months after planting
Mature Size:	2-3 feet tall, 2-3 feet wide
Soil & Moisture:	Well-draining, sandy soil; moderate watering
Light Requirements:	Full Sun
Growth Rate:	Slow to Moderate
Self-fertile:	Yes
Zone Hardiness:	Outdoors 9-11; Patio/Greenhouse 4+
Propagation:	Grown from tissue culture, crowns, or offsets. Capable of producing fruit within 18 months.

Climate: White Jade Pineapple thrives in warm, tropical to subtropical climates and is best suited for USDA hardiness zones 9-11. It prefers temperatures between 65-85°F and can tolerate mild frost. In cooler climates, it can be grown in containers and brought indoors during winter.
Soil: White Jade Pineapples prefer well-draining, sandy soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (5.5-7.0). Soil that is too heavy or retains too much water can lead to root rot, so ensuring good drainage is key.

Location: Choose a sunny location that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Full sun is essential for healthy growth and fruit production.
Soil Preparation: Prepare the soil by loosening it and adding compost or organic matter to improve fertility and drainage.
Planting Time: Plant in the spring or summer when temperatures are warm.
Spacing: Space plants 2-3 feet apart to allow for their spreading growth habit.

Moderate Moisture: Water the plant regularly to keep the soil slightly moist but not waterlogged. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings, as pineapples are somewhat drought-tolerant but sensitive to overwatering.

Full Sun: Ensure the plant receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal growth and fruiting.
Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer every 6-8 weeks during the growing season. Organic compost or liquid fertilizer can also be used to support fruit development.

Low Maintenance: White Jade Pineapple is a low-maintenance plant. Remove any dead or damaged leaves to keep the plant tidy. After harvesting, the mother plant will produce offsets or "pups," which can be replanted for future harvests.
Container Growing: If growing in a container, ensure it has good drainage. Pineapples thrive in large pots and can be brought indoors during colder months.

Common Pests: Watch for pests like mealybugs, scale, and spider mites. Insecticidal soap or neem oil can help manage infestations.
Diseases: White Jade Pineapple is relatively disease-resistant, but avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.

When to Harvest:

White Jade Pineapples are ready to harvest 18-24 months after planting when the fruit turns golden-yellow and gives off a sweet, fruity aroma. The fruit should be firm but slightly soft to the touch.

How to Use:

White Jade Pineapple is perfect for fresh eating, juicing, and adding to fruit salads or desserts. Its ultra-sweet, low-acid flesh makes it a unique and refreshing treat.