The History of Pineapple Growing in Central Florida’s Brevard County

We grow our own pineapples here in Satellite Beach, Florida.  For a quick video and explanation on how easy it is to grow your own pineapples here in Central Florida, see below

Central Florida, particularly Brevard County, has a rich history of pineapple cultivation that dates back to the late 19th century. This area, which includes Satellite Beach, Melbourne Beach, Rockledge, and Melbourne, was once a thriving hub for pineapple production and distribution, contributing significantly to Florida’s agricultural economy.

The Early Days

Pineapple cultivation in Brevard County began in the 1880s, when the fruit was introduced as a viable crop for the region. The area’s subtropical climate, sandy soils, and proximity to the Indian River provided ideal conditions for growing pineapples. Early settlers recognized this potential and began to experiment with planting pineapples alongside other tropical fruits.

The Boom Period

By the 1890s, pineapple farming had become a major industry in Brevard County. The region’s pineapples were known for their exceptional sweetness and quality, making them highly sought after in northern markets. The industry thrived, with farmers exporting large quantities of pineapples via rail to cities across the United States.

The towns of Satellite Beach, Melbourne Beach, Rockledge, and Melbourne became bustling centers of agricultural activity. Rockledge, in particular, was known for its extensive pineapple plantations. Farmers in this area perfected cultivation techniques, leading to increased yields and better-quality fruit.

Challenges and Decline

Despite the early successes, pineapple farming in Brevard County faced significant challenges. The first major blow came in the early 20th century when a series of severe freezes devastated many pineapple plantations. These natural disasters, combined with the rise of competition from other pineapple-growing regions like Hawaii and Cuba, led to a decline in the local industry.

Additionally, pests and diseases, such as the pineapple mealybug, became increasingly difficult to manage. The combination of these factors made pineapple farming less economically viable, and many farmers transitioned to other crops or left agriculture altogether.

Legacy and Revival

Although large-scale pineapple farming in Brevard County has largely disappeared, the legacy of this once-thriving industry remains. The history of pineapple cultivation is still celebrated in the region, and smaller-scale farms and backyard gardens continue to grow pineapples as a nod to the past.

In recent years, there has been a renewed interest in local agriculture and sustainable farming practices. This has led some growers to revisit pineapple cultivation, experimenting with modern techniques to overcome past challenges. While Brevard County may never return to its heyday of pineapple production, the fruit remains an important part of the area’s agricultural heritage and is really easy to grow in your backyard.

Conclusion

The history of pineapple growing in Brevard County is a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of its early settlers. From the boom period of the late 19th century to the challenges of the early 20th century, the story of pineapple farming in this region is one of adaptation and perseverance. Today, as the community looks to the future, the pineapple serves as a symbol of the rich agricultural legacy that continues to shape Brevard County.

Whether you’re exploring the beaches of Satellite Beach and Melbourne Beach, or visiting the historic areas of Rockledge and Melbourne, the influence of pineapple cultivation is an enduring part of the local culture and history.

Grow your Own

Growing your own pineapples here is easy.  You can even use the existing sandy soil.  

1. Buy a bunch of pineapples from the grocery store or even local growers.
2. Eat the nom nom pineapples and save the tops (crowns)
3. You can plant the tops directly in the ground or keep the base in water until roots form and/or ready to plant
4. Provide lots of sunlight and water frequently.  Pineapples are hardy plants and can go without water for periods of time, but frequent watering ensures a healthier and quicker grow.
5. Once your fruit flowers (takes about a year), water more frequently, and feed.  This will help grow the fruit.  
6. Your first fruit productions will be smaller but personally think pineapples grown at home or by local growers taste better and sweeter.  
7. You can take the top (crown) of your harvested fruit and repeat the process for another crop. 
8. You can also grow more pineapples from slips and suckers.  The quick video below highlights this process.  
9. Enjoy!