Pineapple plants originate from tropical and subtropical regions. They thrive in warm, humid climates and are particularly sensitive to cold temperatures. Understanding the specific temperature thresholds that can harm or kill a pineapple plant is important for successful cultivation. This article explains critical temperatures and outlines practical measures to protect them.
Understanding Cold Tolerance
Pineapple plants are susceptible to cold; temperatures at or below freezing can cause significant damage. Temperatures consistently below 32°F (0°C) are lethal for pineapple plants. While they might tolerate brief dips to around 28°F (-2.2°C) briefly, prolonged exposure at or below this point is lethal. Even temperatures slightly above freezing, such as in the low 40s°F (4-7°C), can stress the plant and hinder its growth over time. Their tropical ancestry means they lack the physiological adaptations to withstand frost or prolonged chilling.
Impact of Freezing Temperatures
When pineapple plants are exposed to freezing temperatures, ice crystals form within their cells. These ice crystals expand, piercing and rupturing the cell walls. This physical damage dehydrates plant tissues as water is drawn out to form ice, compromising cell integrity and leading to their death. Visible signs of this damage include leaves turning black, becoming soft or mushy, and eventually wilting. The entire plant may collapse as its internal structure is destroyed.
Protecting Pineapple Plants from Cold
Protecting pineapple plants from cold requires proactive measures. For potted plants, bring them indoors when temperatures are forecast to drop below 45°F (7°C). Outdoor plants can be protected by:
- Covering them with frost cloths, blankets, or burlap sacks draped over a frame to prevent direct contact with cold material.
- Mulching around the base with straw or wood chips to insulate roots from ground frost.
- Ensuring the soil is adequately watered before a cold snap, as moist soil retains heat better than dry soil.
- Using temporary heat sources, such as incandescent light bulbs or small heaters placed under covers, for larger outdoor plantings.
These protective actions are most effective when implemented before the cold temperatures arrive.
Assessing and Recovering from Cold Damage
After a pineapple plant has been exposed to cold, assess the extent of the damage before taking action. Signs of severe, irrecoverable damage include extensive blackening, a mushy texture throughout the plant, or the complete collapse of the central stem. If only the outer leaves show damage but the central core remains firm and green, the plant may still recover. To aid recovery, wait until the full extent of the damage is clear (usually a few days after the cold event), then carefully prune away any dead, mushy, or blackened tissue using clean, sharp shears. Provide the plant with a warm, stable environment, reduce watering initially, and gradually resume a normal watering schedule as new growth appears.