Updated 4/6/2020
Reduce Waste and Make the Most of Your Pineapple Crown
As a Sustainably Grown Certified farm, we’re big on reducing waste – and that includes pineapple crowns! If you’ve ever been disappointed when it’s time to discard your pineapple scraps, we’ve got you covered. Continue on for some helpful tips and tricks for fun and creative ways to repurpose your pineapple crown once you’re all finished eating your delicious pineapple.
Grow Your Own Houseplant
Good news! You can re-plant the crown of your juicy treat and create your very own houseplant to care for. While growing an actual pineapple from the top will take about 2-3 years due to their slow growth rate, planting the crown is a simple step, and you’ll have a beautiful plant to look after in the meantime. Watch as this baby grows, and maybe one day you’ll have your very own pineapple!
Instructions:
- Cut the top of your pineapple off a half an inch below the leaves and trim until you can see root buds.
- Allow the pineapple top to dry for a week before planting.
- Plant your crown in soil, water thoroughly and place in bright, indirect light.
- After the roots begin to develop (typically 6-8 weeks) provide your plant with additional sunlight.
For a full step-by-step on how to grow your pineapple plant, click here.
Make a Decorative Flower
Throwing a get-together? Use the scraps from your snack tray to garnish the setting! This DIY is surprisingly simple with just a few steps to follow. Plus, everyone will wonder where you got such a gorgeous arrangement – little do they know it came from the produce aisle!
Instructions:
- Cut off the top of the pineapple crown, leaving a few inches at the bottom.
- Cut the remaining pineapple crown off of the top of the pineapple.
- Trim the tips of the leaves along the sides.
- Spread the leaves outward as a flower begins to form.
For a step by step guide on how to create a pineapple garnish, click here.
Brew a Cup of Tea
Did you know pineapple crowns can be edible? It’s true! Once you’ve enjoyed all the fresh taste that your fruit has to offer, gather up your peel and brew this delicious and comforting drink. Requiring only a few ingredients, it’s as easy as 1-2-tea.
Ingredients:
- 1 Chestnut Hill Farms pineapple peel, crown, and scraps
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 1 knob of ginger
- Water to cover
Instructions:
- Place the ingredients into a medium-sized pot and pour enough water to cover. Set the heat to medium-low and let simmer for 25 minutes. Cover with a lid and allow the tea to infuse for 20 minutes.
- Strain your tea and enjoy either hot or cold.
Making the Most of Your Pineapple
With a tough outer layer and prickly leaves, cutting a pineapple can be tricky. If you’re not sure how, don’t worry – you’re not alone. We suggest using a pineapple corer to slice and dice your tropical fruit to ensure you’re getting the most out of this delicious treat. Enjoy!
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