Pineapple farming is a lucrative venture for many Ugandan farmers, but to achieve high yields and healthy fruits, experts emphasise the importance of proper spacing.
Spacing affects plant health, fruit size, and ease of management throughout the growth cycle. When done correctly, it boosts productivity and reduces disease outbreaks.
Hassan Serwadda, a pineapple farmer from Nsiima in Kayunga district, says poor spacing was one of his early mistakes.
“I used to plant them too close, thinking I would harvest more. But the plants competed for water and nutrients, and many produced small or misshapen fruits,” he says.
After consulting extension officers, he adopted the standard spacing of 30cm between plants and 90cm between rows, and now his yields have significantly improved.
John Kavule, who both farms and trades pineapples in Luweero and Kampala markets, agrees.
“Pineapples need sunlight and good airflow. When they are too close, diseases like heart rot and mealybugs spread faster. Proper spacing reduces this and makes it easier to move through the garden during weeding and harvesting,” he explains.
Henry Sekyewa, an agronomist, says the recommended spacing ensures each plant gets enough resources to develop a strong root system and healthy fruit.
“In tight spacing, plants compete for light, leading to poor photosynthesis. It also encourages fungal diseases due to humidity trapped between leaves,” he notes.
Sekyewa adds that wider spacing allows farmers to apply fertilisers and pesticides more efficiently.
Mechanised or semi-mechanised farming becomes easier with well-planned rows. Whether for local consumption or export, fruit quality matters, and spacing plays a key role.
In commercial pineapple farming, spacing is not just about neatness; it’s a proven strategy to maximise output, reduce losses, and grow market-ready fruits.
