I like the look of cuttings in pretty glassware so I tend to propagate in water. Whichever you prefer! Suitable Soil for Pineapple Crop: Pineapple grows in almost any type of soil, provided it is free-draining. A harvest of high-quality, sweet fruits, however, requires paying extra attention to soil nutrients. Growing a pineapple from the top is possible through both water propagation and soil propagation. Regular fertilization and proper planting preparation can do wonders for a pineapple … Growing a pineapple top in water. It can grow in sandy, alluvial or laterite soil. Pineapple plants tolerate a range of conditions as long as they receive bright, all-day sunlight and have well-draining soil. To propagate a pineapple from a grocery store fruit, cut off the top of the plant, including the leaves on top (the immature plant) and a thick slice of the fruit. After preparing the crown, the easiest propagation method is to simply plop it into a glass of water. In fact they like similar soil conditions as cacti: well drained and on the dry side, but with an acidic pH of 4.5-6.5. Heavy clay soil is not preferred. When growing pineapples, remember that their roots do not like to stay wet. Slightly acidic soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.0 is considered optimum for pineapple cultivation. Pineapple plants may be available in your local garden center or there are also sources online. Plant the cutting, so the leaves are flush or slightly above the soil line, then start watering from the top. The soil must be well drained and light in texture.