MACA BLAST

"It's Juicing Wednesday"

"Maca Blast" on the go

What are we juicing/blending?

Maca Blast!

Alternative milks, Maca powder, Leafy greens, Pineapple, and Ripe bananas

What is maca (lepidium meyenii)?

Maca is a vegetable root belonging to the radish family grown in the mountains of Peru.  It is known as the "Peruvian Ginseng."  Maca contains fatty acids and amino acids.  Maca has become very popular in the healthy diet lifestyle because the excellent health benefits it gives the body.  The Peruvian root is super beneficial in helping with treatments, control, and prevent the following health conditions such as:

• Anemia
• Fatigue Syndrome
• Boost energy
• Stamina
• Athletic performance
• Memory
• Fertility - balances hormones and menstrual problems
• Menopause Symptoms
• Osteoporosis
• Depression
• Stomach cancer
• Leukemia
• Tuberculosis
• Erectile Dysfunction
• Boost the immune system
• Skincare - acne

Maca root holds active nutrients for the body:

• High in protein
• Natural sugars
• Iron
• Potassium
• Iodine
• Magnesium
• Calcium
• Fiber
• Amino acids
• B vitamins

Due to its high nutritional content it is often referred to as a "superfood."

Normally, sold in raw powder food or capsules.  If you are lucky, some places may have it in its rare form "root" itself.  The strength of the active ingredients in maca varies:  raw powdered maca is usually taken as one tablespoon per day or supplement capsules 500mg twice daily.  Maca works as a adaptogen.

Add your ingredients, leafy greens and bananas to blender 

*Essential Tool:  Nutribullet or Blender

Add your powdered ingredients
Maca and Cinnamon

Add your Pineapples with core

*Health Tip:  The core is the tough fiber part located in the middle center of the pineapple and less sweet.  Many people tend to throw it away and eat the flesh around it.  But, that core is actually edible and super beneficial to the body.  The core is known as the "bromelain".  Bromelain is an enzyme found in the pineapple stem.  Centuries ago pineapple was used in Central and South America as an alternative to treat indigestion and reduce inflammation.  Today, bromelain is currently used as a dietary supplement and sold in the form of powder, cream, tablet, or capsule and in a combination mixed with other ingredients.  The German Commission E approved bromelain to treat swelling and inflammation after surgery.

What do we know about bromelain benefits?

1. A powerful relief from inflammatory pain
2. Heals injuries (sprains, strains, and tendinitis)
3. Works well just as NSAID drugs without the side effects
4. Reduces the pain of osteoarthritis (joint pains)
5. Anti-inflammatory properties
6. Sinus support (relieves sinusitis, nasal congestion)
7. Relieves symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease/ ulcerative colitis (diarrhea)
8. Skin disorders 
9. Fights cancer
10. Speeds healing time and pain after surgery

*Shopping Tip:  Buy a whole pineapple instead of precut.  Pineapples that are sold already cut are usually missing the core (bromelain).  When purchasing a unripe whole fresh pineapple look for green leaves and a firm shell.  Remove the crown of the pineapple and turn it upside down (all the sweet juices from the bottom will flow evenly through the fruit) leave on counter until it turns a golden color.

Add your favorite alternative milks and probiotics 

Add 1 tablespoon of coconut water probiotics 

Blend away!
Ready to bottle up or drink

                                                                                           
                                                                                       Enjoy your Maca Blast!

YOUTHFUL, SWEET, BREAK APART, UPLIFTS, AND FIGHTER. WHO AM I?

"Clementine"

A perfect winter fruit

     I come as a whole, small, smooth shiny protective loose skin, refreshing aroma that lingers, sweet, juicy, very succulent, dynamite fighter booster, give off happy relaxing feelings, and people love to grab me.  I am the Clementine.

     Did you know it was me?  I belong to the Rutaceae family, commonly know as the "citrus family".  The clementine is very popular in the United States and widely available during the winter.

Winter season

   
     The clementine is a perfect fruit to have around during winter months because our bodies struggle to fight colds.  Lets' closely take a look at why we should include the small fruit in our healthy diet.

A peeled open Clementine

Nutritional Value of Clementine

• Vitamin C (ascorbic acid)
• Folate
• Fiber
• Potassium
• Magnesium
• Calcium
• Iron
• Beta carotene

Health Benefits

• Boost the immune system (fight infections)
• Aids in digestion
• Weight loss
• Prevents free radical damage
• Relieves stress
• Vision
• Maintain blood pressure (circulation)
• Brain function (focus, memory)
• Skin
• Strengthen bones and muscles
• Electrolyte balance
• Anticancer properties (antioxidants)

   
     Now you know who I am, the Clementine.  Can I become a part of your family?

CHINESE APPLE

"Pomegranate"

Pomegranate
"Chinese Apple"

     Years ago this fruit was known as the Chinese Apple.  I have remembered when my parents bought (still does) bags of the fruit for us to eat as a healthy snack during the summertime as a kid.  The fruit was so popular back in the late 70s and 80s. The memory was so vivid that I recalled playing outside in front of our building in Brooklyn, picking out those tiny fleshy liquid seeds and eating them like sweet sour candy with the red juice dripping down my fingers, hands, and staining.  

Edible Seeds
inside of a pomegranate
"Life's Treasures"

     Fast forward to the 3rd millennium, who knew this particular powerful fruit would be very popular today in the forefront of the medical world.  As a child, I've known it as the Chinese Apple not pomegranate.  It makes me wonder when did the name change?  

     The big red round fruit with a weird stem on top remind you of a Christmas ornament.  You would have to split open the fruit to reveal the inside, which are numerous fluid filled sac seeds individually separated by inedible membranes.  The seeds are edible.  A health treasure for the human body.  The pomegranate helps cardiovascular system function preventing damage to arterial walls, improving blood circulation, maintaining healthy blood pressure levels, protects against cancer, and diabetes.

     According to the Medical College of Wisconsin, scientists says by sipping a half cup of pure 100% pomegranate juice daily, or eating 2/3 cup of pomegranate seeds could reduce your risk of colon cancer 33% or more.  Studies shows high consumption in fruit and vegetable is associated with lower cancer risk.  Diets rich in polyphenols from specific plant foods fends off cancer.

     The ellagic acid, a compound found in the pomegranate strengthens and protects the digestive tract lining so the toxins can't easily harm its cells.  Pomegranate is a rich source of antioxidants the body craves to have on a daily basis.  Besides being categorized as a  "superfood", the pomegranate has a significant symbolic meaning in the ancient world of mythology.  The ancient world symbolizes the fruit to represent fertility, abundance, life, love, rebirth, hope, prosperity, beauty, eternity, and marriage.  

     Well, it seems my parents was on to something years ago in giving us the give of life.  Would you consider in having this magnificent treasure fruit, Chinese Apple or Pomegranate, in the center of your table as a daily reminder that Mother Nature has given us the gift of life, literally?

KUMQUAT WINTER HARVEST 2015

"Nagami Kumquat"

 

Almost 100% fully ripe
Kumquats

 

 

Another citrus winter harvest for 2015!  You do not have to be in the sunny states to enjoy a citrus harvest.  You can have a citrus plant in wintry places like this!

 

  

Citrus trees can thrive indoors in a nice comfortable, preferably sunny window area.  What I come to understand about citrus fruits and not even just citrus plants but other foods, such as, sweet red peppers, that you got to have patience.  Patience is a virtue.  It took many months to develop  and turn to the bright orange.  When I bought this plant it already had unripe kumquats formed on it.  The kumquats started turning the last weeks of November 2014.

 

By December it looked liked this...

 

Kumquats turning from green to orange
December 7, 2014

 Peeking through the shadows of the leaves and branches you can see one has fully ripen...

 

One fully ripe kumquat
December 7, 2015

Within days and more weeks I was able to pick a few here and there...  

 

Ripe Kumquats
December 25, 2014

 

And over a half a dozen more yesterday!  Gave some of my harvest to family and friends.  My nephews cannot get enough of them.  But, my mom and sister hesitates in eating them.

 

Why?

 

They do not like the "kumquat experience" it gives you.

 

What experience?

 

My first experience was a remarkable one.  I had never eaten one before.  The first time I seen (up and close) of a kumquat plant was when I visited Phoenix, Arizona at the True Food Kitchen Restaurant (highly recommend - located in various states).  But, just recently I ate one for the first time- OH MY!  The skin is edible (the best sweet part).  I bit into one and BAM didn't expect that SOUR sensation.  Talk about a facial expression you don't want to see.

How do you eat a kumquat?

 

 

 So, do you have a kumquat experience you would like to share?  Did you like it?



GUESS WHO STOPPED BY FOR MANY DINNERS?

"The Cucurbita Family"

 

 

Butternut Squash, Spaghetti Squash, and Pumpkin
"We are still in season"

Hopefully, everyone is eating the foods that are in season.  If you haven't invited the Cucurbita Family to your home as of yet, then do so now while they are visiting your local supermarkets and farmer's markets.




                                                                                 Extend the love with welcome arms!







HERBS, KUMQUAT, GOJI, LAVENDER, AND MUMS

 

"Repotting and Gardening"

 

 

 

 

 

Repotting and gardening can be a tedious task to do and a exercise work out as well.  It requires lifting, bending, standing, and walking.  Gardening is a stress relief benefit and calorie burning activity.  I like gardening because it alleviates my stress and it's peaceful.  A good nurturing for the soul.

 

Recently, I had purchased several plants from vendors at a Farmer's Market and a Nursery.  I try to buy edible plants that are hard to find in stores and gives me the healing benefit for my health.

 

Why is potting or repotting important to do?

Repotting helps keep houseplants healthy and expands more growth for the plant. 

 

What materials and tools do I need?

A new bigger pot, new soil, and water (watering before transfering helps make the transfer easy and loosen up the roots and soil).

 

What edible plants am I repotting?

 

 

Wolf Berry
Known as "Goji Berry"

 

Goji berries are very expensive.

You would mostly see dried goji berries in health food stores costing in range of $16.99-$26.99).

Fresh goji berries are hard to find in supermarkets and health food stores.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I stumbled upon this goji berry plant at the Union Square Farmer's Market from one of the vendors - selling at $5 a pot.  I was surprised to see the fruit plant on the shelves because I haven't seen any market selling it.  I grabbed one real quick!

 

 

Fresh organic Goji Berries
"The fruit of immortality"

 

Why are Goji Berries important?

 

Wolf berry, known as Goji Berry, is a bright red fruit of the lycium babarum perennial tree shrub grown in Asia.  In Chinese mythology, goji berry is the fruit of immortality.  Today it is considered as the "longevity fruit."  Goji berry is one of the most powerful healing plants that was used in two ancient medicines, Traditional Chinese Medicine and Traditional Tibetan Medicine over 2,000 years ago.  The people in Tibet and Mongolia cherish the red berry for the medicare benefits.

 

Benefits of Goji Berry

"A report in a 2004 issue of The Journal of the the American Nutraceutical Association concluded that wolf berry juice has the high levels of antioxidants and showed beneficial immunomodulatory (immune-boosting) effects in mice."

• Rich in carotenoids
• Beta carotene
• Lycopenne
• Anti-Inflammatory
• Vitamin C
• B Vitamins
• Vitamin E
• Eye protection
• Protection against free radicals
• Promote muscle growth
• Enhance immunity
• Protect liver
• Improve sexual function and fertility
• Strength legs
• Promote weight loss
• Improve circulation
• Improve skin and hair health
• Protection against cancer
• Lower cholesterol levels
• Reduce blood glucose
• Antioxidants

What does it taste like?
Goji berry has a slightly sweet and sour taste.

 

   

Wolf Berry "Goji Berry"
Repotted
Mother Nature's Gift that keeps on giving

  Here is a mini documentary segment from the Medicine Hunter on goji berries...

 

 

Nagami Kumquat
(Fortunella Margarita)

The first time I saw a nagami kumquat was when I was in Phoenix, Arizona.  A road trip driving from Flagstaff, Arizona to Phoenix airport with my friends. I told them we have to stop at the "True Food Kitchen" restaurant which Dr. Andrew Weil and Fox Restaurant Concepts owns. We could not leave the state of Arizona without eating at this restaurant. There was a garden elevated raised bed in front of the restaurant and the nagami kumquat was planted in the raised bed - from that point on I had to find out how can I taste or purchase a plant like that. Over a month ago I saw the plant in a local nursery in Long Island. The nursery was having a sale with a 40% off coupon on anything in the store. I bought the plant for just $32. A good deal!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Nagami Kumquat is a citrus fruit belonging to the Rutaceae family, in the genus, Fortunella.  Kumquats are native to the South Eastern parts of China.  They are known to be called "the little gems" of the citrus family.  There are several varieties of kumquats.  Kumquats look like tiny baby oranges.  The Nagami or Oval Kumquat is a common variety in the United States.  Nagami kumquat was introduced into Florida from Japan in 1885. 

 

Nagami Kumquat
Repotted

 

 

What are the health benefits? 

• Fiber
• Antioxidants
• Lutein
• Vitamin C
• Vitamin A
• Vitamin E
• Protection against free radicals
• B complex Vitamins
• Calcium
• Iron
• Potassium
• Zinc

 

Nagami Kumquat
Mother Nature's Gift that keeps on giving



Dwarf Curry, Holy Basil, and Vietnamese Coriander

Dwarf Curry, Holy Basil, and Vietnamese Coriander

These herbs are unique and has excellent health benefits.  The herbs are hard to find in your supermarkets.  Most likely, you would have to venture out to ethnic stores.  If you are lucky, it may pop up in your local Farmers' Market.  I found the herbs at Union Square Farmers' Market.





Dwarf Curry has a strong curry aroma.

Holy Basil (Ocimum Sanctum) is a powerful herb native to India and known as "tulsi."  It is sacred in the Hindu religious tradition and it is worshiped in the mornings and evenings by the Hindus.  Holy basil is the most important herb in Ayurvedic medicine.  In Hindu mythology, tulsi, symbolizes the Goddess Lakshmi.  The herb has a strong aroma, can be used in cooking, and making teas.  Holy basil was used centuries ago to treat a variety of medical aliments.

Healing power of Holy basil?

• Sharpen memory
• Helps the nerves
• Strengthen the stomach
• Fights fevers and colds
• Fights bronchitis
• Helps asthma
• Respiratory disorders
• Lowers cholesterol
• Reduces stress
• Mouth infections
• Skin disorders
• Bad breath
• Antibacterial
• Antifungal
• Anti-inflammatory properties

 Vietnamese Coriander (Polygonum Odoratum) a spicy flavor with hints of cilantro. Vietnamese coriander is known as "Rau Ram" in Vietnam.  A perennial herbal plant.

Benefits

• Helps the digestive system



 

Lavender and Mums

 

 

I've planted more perennials at the side of the house.  My local supermarket had 1 gallon lavender plants on sale for $3.99, of course I had to grab some quick! Mums were on sale too!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

After all that repotting and gardening - I had to pour myself a nice glass of ginger wine...

 

 

Chill glass of Ginger Wine

 

 



EAT A PEACH

 

"Alternative Health Power"

 



Peaches

 

 

Peaches are known as "the fruit of calmness" in Hungary.  In China, it is the symbol of "longevity and good luck."

 

 

Now, it is known to the world as one of the number one breast cancer fighter of foods.  Recently, researchers at Texas A&M revealed that peaches contains two antioxidants (polyphenols) that can help kill breast cancer cells and keep the healthy cells intact.  This study finding was published in the Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry.  "They found it essentially caused the most aggressive cancer cells to commit suicide."

 

Peaches has the ability to inhibit the cancer cells from spreading to other parts of the body.  The natural antioxidants (polyphenols) are found on the skin.  Peaches that are most red (see in picture) have the more cancer fighting compounds. 

*Update:  Peaches are good for the liver, blood circulation, intestinal tract, endometriosis, uterine fibroids, uterus, eliminating blood toxins, and menstrual pain.  For a more in depth on the research of peaches from the Alternative Chinese Medicine stand point click here http://www.pingminghealth.com/article/239/peach-and-period-pain/

 

Fresh fruit is better.  Frozen is the second best.  But canned peaches do not pack the same fighting punch you get with fresh fruit.  Organic is best no pesticides.  If you are not lucky to have a peach tree in your backyard or cannot spend on organic produce, then thoroughly wash the fruit.

 

You can wash with equal parts of water and vinegar to limit bacteria and pesticides.  This procedure can be done to all fruits and vegetables.


Peaches in equal parts water and vinegar

 

Health tip:  Eat at least three peaches a day.  Plums and nectarines are good as well.

*Update Health tip:  "According to Chinese medicine, women should eat one fresh peach per day or half a cup of sun-dried unsulphured peaches every second day near the time of the menstrual cycle.  It is helpful for blood circulation within the intestinal tract and blood surrounding the uterus."

In conclusion, the research finding is astonishing- Peaches cut your risk of breast cancer by 40% (2-3 whole peaches).  We have hope in trying to beat this deadly disease.  It's imperative that we all keep up on medical research to find out what can we do to help prevent diseases from attacking our bodies.  Don't stay in the clouds of not knowing start seeking for answers and solutions.

 

By the way,  breast cancer is not only for women.  Men are accessible as well.   Highly recommend do self exams, keep up with your mammograms, and if something is not right seek help. 

 

 

                                                                                                     Namaste



WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME YOU HAD A FRESH APRICOT?

 

"Apricots"

 

 

Prunus Armenia
In Season May - September

 

 

 

     I hope everyone have been eating fresh apricots.  Right now, apricots are on sale at most supermarkets because it's the season.  When produce are in season prices tend to be just right.  Apricots are relatives to the peach and nectarine family.  You can tell - just look at.  It has a beautiful golden orange and pinkish color, small, round, velvety skin and flesh, smooth, sweet, but not too juicy.  The Greeks named them "golden eggs of the sun."  Fresh riped apricots has a sweet flavor similar to plums.  Fresh riped apricots are delicate so they should be handled with care.  If you see apricots that are pale yellow, avoid them.  They were picked too early.  Apricots should be slightly soft and not too firm.  Turkey, United States, Russia, Italy, Greece, Spain, China, and France are the leading producers of apricots.  Apricots were originally from China but as you can see it is now all over the world.

 

What are the benefits of apricots?

 

• Excellent source of fiber - supports the digestive system.
• Helps to control blood cholesterol levels - supports cardiovascular system.
• Protection against free radical damage - potent antioxidants, such as, quercetin and catechins.
• Eyesight Protection - rich in vitamin A, beta carotenes, and xanthophylls.
• Vitamin C.
• Potassium and copper.
• Protection against inflammation.

*Health tip:  Researchers linked by eating 3 servings of apricots a day reduces the risk of vision loss with aging.


*Be aware majority of dried apricots has sulfites.  Look for dried apricots that has no sulfites or preservatives.   

     Now that you know APRICOTS are in season and the excellent benefits it provides the body, isn't it time for you to go grab some?

 



HAVE YOU MET THE CUCURBITA FAMILY?

"Winter Hardy Vegetables? Nope, Fruit"

Yes, we are a hardy bunch!

So who are the Cucurbitas?
   
     A unique family.  The Cucurbita family comes in various shapes, sizes, and rich colors.  Squash is mainly identified as a vegetable than a fruit.  They are truly a fruit because they contain seeds of the plant.  Squash are divided into two categories, summer and winter squashes.  An example of summer squashes are zucchini and yellow squash.  Summer squash skin and seeds are soft and edible verses winter squash has a thick hard skin and seeds.  Gourds have extremely hard shell, inedible to eat, and mainly used as decorations.  There are some gourds you are able to consume, such as, pumpkins.  Pumpkins are usually recognized as being the pepo.

The Cucurbita family are:

• The squash
• The gourd
• The pumpkin

Therefore, divided into subcategories, such as, Cucurbita Moschata, Cucurbita Maxima, and Cucurbita Pepo.

Cucurbita Maxima - are frost intolerant annual plants.  Winter squash - Acorn, Buttercup, Banana, Kabocha, and some Pumpkins.
   

Acorn squash (Cucurbita Maxima) and Dumpling squash (Cucurbita Pepo)
Found at Farmer's Markets

Cucurbita Pepo - Grows as long vines as annual plants. Summer and Winter squash - Zucchini, Marrow, Pumpkin, and Dumpling.

Spaghetti squash (Cucurbita Pepo) at far left and various species of Pumpkins
*not sure which kind of squash is in the middle
Found at Farmer's Markets

Cucurbita Moschata - Frost intolerant annual plants originated in Mexico and Central America.  Pumpkin and Winter squash - Butternut, Winter Crookneck, and Cushaw.

Butternut squash (Cucurbita Moschata)
Found at Farmer's Market

So what are the health benefits of the Cucurbita family?

This family has excellent reasons for you to invite them into your home and bodies!

1. An excellent source of Vitamin A.
2. Beta carotene.
3. Helps fights off cancer causing free radicals.
4. Fiber.
5. Maintains heart, vision, and immune system.
6. Controls cholesterol levels.
7. Helps build strong bones and teeth.
8. Antioxidants.
9. Anti-Inflammatory.*
10. Anti-Diabetic and Insulin regulating properties.*
11. Vitamin C.
12. Potassium.
13. Fights off cataracts.
14. Several B vitamins.

Here are some articles I found that can help give you a more in depth identification of how to recognize the members of the Cucurbita family and how to incorporate the family members in your diet.

http://www.epicurious.com/articlesguides/seasonalcooking/farmtotable/visual-guide-winter-squash

http://localfoods.about.com/od/wintersquashpumpkin/ss/Types-Of-Winter-Squash.htm

http://www.foodsubs.com/Squash.html

     In conclusion, we all need to open our minds and bodies to different families of foods to achieve optiumum health.  In a world that is now adding toxins into our food supplies we must find alternative ways in finding out what is best for our bodies.  Reading and learning is the best thing we can do for ourselves in achieving the knowledge that is out there at our fingertips.





 

ONE'S PRIDE AND JOY...

 

"Papaya"



"Granddad"
 

     Juicer Khali is back and she brought along Granddad!  Khali and Granddad "Mr. Jefferson" has a message for everyone. 

     "Stand and Be Proud of what you have accomplished and teach what you know."



Papaya Education 101
Another example of
"If you lead, others will follow"

 

      It's Juicing Tuesday!  What are you juicing?  I hope something nutritional and new.  Remember to kick up a notch on utilizing other vegetables and fruits that you've never experience in eating.  It's very important to have an open mind and "belly" in learning about the various exotic foods that are at one's reach.  So, be creative!

 

     Papaya is an excellent choice of fruit to eat for the following reasons:

(The flesh is orange in color with pink or yellow hues with a soft consistency, sweet and musky taste.  The seeds are edible!)

• Promotes a healthy digestive system
• Prevent Prostate cancer
• Protects against Rheumatoid Arthritis
• Anti-inflammatory effects
• Immune support
• Protection against Macular Degeneration
• Antioxidants
• Boost Male Virility
• Prevents Premature aging
• Detox
• Good for the Heart - Potassium
• Low in calories
• Vitamin A
• Vitamin C
• B complex

       Papaya is well known in Thai dishes - green papaya salad.  Papaya is native to Central America.

To achieve the fullest antioxidants eat the papaya when it is fully ripened.  Papayas that are partially yellow should be left at room temperature - a few days it will ripened.

 



"My pride and joy of prosperous organic non-GMO PAPAYAS!"

 

                  Love what you do and be proud of your accomplishments

                                                                                                


 



THE SEED THAT IS WORTH BLENDING

"Superfood"

Pomegranate Seeds

     It's Juicing/Blending Tuesday!  Do you know what you are Juicing?  Why not try pomegranate seeds?  Pomegranate has excellent antioxidant properties more than red wine and green tea.  It's heart friendly and we love that!  Helps flows blood to the HEART.

     So have a wine glass of Pomegranate Juice and keep that heart ticking.

WHAT A BEAUTY TO BE THE 100TH POST

"Patience Is A Virtue"

A Pineapple Flower
July 27, 2013

Five years for a flower to appear

     What a wonderful surprised to have found this on July 20, 2013...

     It takes 100 or more separate flower buds to grow into a pineapple.  Many more months for it to develop into a full pineapple.

     In order for flower buds to appear in the center heart of the plant it has to be at a mature stage like this...

A Mature Pineapple Plant

     

     This grew from a mother plant.  I had bought a pineapple plant with a small pineapple attached to it from Costco five years ago.  The mother plant and pineapple died and a sucker shoot developed.  It kept growing and growing.  Last year I had finally repotted the plant into this big pot.  As you can see, in the left side column an old picture and the location I kept it.  Then, last year I made changes and moved it to the other side of sunroom in another sunny corner with a better pot to grow.  Last summer 2012 I was thinking about forcing the plant to pollinate since it was four years and nothing was happening just long sharp leaves kept developing.  I decided I would just let it be and wait it out.  Thank God I did otherwise I wouldn't have been so excited and shock when I stumbled upon the "wonderful surprise" when closing the window near it.  PATIENCE IS A VIRTUE.

     Once I saw the flower bud in the center, days later I decided to move the pineapple outside in the backyard for a nice summer vacation.  I'm glad I did because the flower buds enjoyed the nice HOT HUMID NEW YORK WEATHER (heat wave on the east coast).

July 25, 2013

July 27, 2012

     How's my pineapple plant doing now?  As of today, it's OFFICIALLY OUT!

August 4, 2013

     Mother Nature sure knows what she is doing.  A great enjoyment to see up close how the stages of such, a healing fruit can be developed without living in a tropical hot climate.  Many beautiful plants, edible or non-edible, can grow healthy indoors.  Do not be discourage and do not assume you need to be an "experienced green thumb" person.  I wasn't and look at what I got.

*UPDATE

August 24, 2013

September 22, 2013

A pineapple plant produces only one flower and one pineapple fruit. Once the first pineapple produces, the mother plant will give ratoons or suckers off springs before it dies. 

 

October 14, 2013
*The propagation process has begun - peeking out is a slip.


A second or third fruit grows off the side shoots of the mother plant called "ratoons."

October 14, 2013
*Beginning of propagation - a ratoon (sucker) peeking through.
<A 2nd pineapple plant emerging>

A mother plant can produce multiple suckers.  There are four types of planting materials:  the crown, slips and hapas (appears to rise at the stalk below of the fruit), suckers develop along the bases of the leaves, and ratoons arise at underground portions of the stems.

 

                               Live Life and Enjoy Mother Nature's Beauty

           

                                                                                                                   Namaste