The Pinkglow® Pineapple, cultivated exclusively in the South-Central region of Costa Rica, benefits from the area's perfect blend of soil quality and climate, which are essential for pineapple cultivation. This specific type of pineapple is known for its distinctive pink flesh, which is a result of lycopene, the natural pigment also found in tomatoes and watermelons.
Growing pineapples, including the Pinkglow® variety, involves several specific steps:
Planting: Pineapples are typically grown from the crowns of the fruit, which are the leafy parts at the top. These crowns are planted in well-drained, sandy soil, which is abundant in Costa Rica's South-Central region.
Climate Requirements: Pineapples require a warm climate with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). They also need a well-balanced amount of rainfall—neither too much nor too little—which makes the tropical climate of Costa Rica ideal.
Growth Period: It takes about 18-24 months for a pineapple plant to produce its first fruit. During this time, farmers need to ensure that the plants get enough water and are protected from weeds and soil erosion.
Harvesting: Once ripe, pineapples are harvested by hand. The Pinkglow® Pineapples are particularly unique because they are not only harvested for their fruit but also for their distinctive pink color, which is more visually appealing and marketed as a premium product.
Post-Harvest: After harvesting, the crowns of the fruits are often replanted to produce the next crop, making pineapple cultivation a sustainable practice.
The specific cultivation practices and ideal growing conditions in Costa Rica contribute significantly to the unique characteristics of the Pinkglow® Pineapple, making it a sought-after fruit and one of the most popular ones at Tropical Fruit Box.