Summary
The pineapple, scientifically known as *Ananas comosus*, belongs to the Bromeliaceae family and is native to Brazil. This tropical fruit is not just a delight for the taste buds; it is also a powerhouse of nutrients. Rich in Vitamin C, it also provides significant amounts of Vitamins A, B, calcium, phosphorus, and iron. The fruit contains an enzyme called bromelain, which aids in protein digestion while offering ample dietary fiber to alleviate constipation. Pineapples can be enjoyed in various forms, including juices, slices, jams, and candies, showcasing their versatility. Pineapples thrive in a tropical climate, with ideal temperatures ranging between 21-23°C and an elevation of about 1100 meters. The plants require approximately 150 cm of rainfall annually and prefer well-draining soils, ideally sandy loams or slightly acidic soils with a pH of 5.5 to 6. The soil should be at least 60 cm deep and free of waterlogging or hardpan. There are numerous pineapple varieties categorized into three main groups: Cayenne, Queen, and Spanish, as classified by Hume and Muller in 1904. Notable commercial cultivars in India include Giant Kew, Kew, Queen, and Mauritius. Each variety has distinct characteristics suited for different purposes; for example, the Cayenne and Spanish groups are suitable for both fresh consumption and canning, while the Queen group is primarily consumed fresh. Varieties such as “Smooth Cayenne” dominate the canned pineapple market, whereas “Abacaxi” is admired for its flavor despite its challenging shipping qualities. Pineapples are primarily propagated through vegetative methods, utilizing suckers, slips, crowns, or stumps. Suckers are favored for their quicker fruiting time, while slips yield larger fruits at a later stage. Land preparation is crucial for successful cultivation, involving deep tilling, application of fertilizer, and laying out trenches for planting. The recommended planting technique involves a double-row system to maximize space and yield, allowing for high-density planting of between 15,000 to 20,000 suckers per hectare. Intercultural practices like mulching and pruning improve fruit quality and protect the crops from adverse weather conditions. Proper fertilization and irrigation schedules further enhance growth, ensuring a good yield, typically ranging from 40-60 tonnes per hectare. After about 12 months, the plants flower, typically between February and April, with ripening occurring 135 to 165 days later, usually from June to September. Harvesting involves cutting the ripe fruit at the base while leaving one sucker for ratoon cropping. This sustainable practice allows farmers to continue producing pineapples for several years, ensuring the longevity of their crops. In summary, the cultivation of pineapples is a meticulous process that requires attention to climate, soil conditions, and proper agricultural techniques. With their rich nutritional profile and economic viability, pineapples remain a significant fruit crop in many tropical regions.
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