Blog
Understanding the Differences Between Turkey Tail and Microporus Mushrooms
Mushrooms captivate enthusiasts and foragers with their diversity, beauty, and potential benefits. However, one challenge that often arises is distinguishing
Discover the Spirit of Mālama ‘Āina at Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary
Nestled in the heart of Hawaiʻi, the Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary is more than just a breathtaking landscape—it’s a thriving
THE POWER OF PRAYER: REMEMBERING HOʻOPONOPONO
We just celebrated Hawaiian Language Month in November, and we wanted to highlight one of our absolute favorites to close
Giving Back to the ‘Āina: Small Acts, Big Impact
The Hawaiian concept of ‘Āina goes beyond the idea of “land”; it embodies the profound connection between people and the
Pacific19: A Traveler’s Perfect Stay in the Heart of Kona
Our Staycation at Pacific19: A Hidden Gem in the Heart of Kona If you’re looking for a place that feels
Rooted in Gratitude for the Silent Giving of Plants and Trees
Imagine a world without forests. The air we breathe, the water we drink, and even the stability of our planet
Mind, Body, and Nature: Discover Wellness at Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary
October 10 is recognized globally as World Mental Health Day, a time dedicated to raising awareness, reducing stigma, and fostering
Balancing Self-Care and Emotional Responsibility: The Key to Well-Being
Taking care of your physical and mental health is essential for living a fulfilling life, but it’s not just about
Guardians of the ‘Āina: Why We Appreciate Hawaii’s Sustainability Educators
Hawaii is more than just a paradise of sandy beaches and lush landscapes. It’s a unique ecosystem, home to diverse
Teaching with Heart: Recognizing the Passion and Commitment of Our Educators
Teaching is far more than just a job—it’s a calling. It requires an emotional and intellectual investment that goes beyond
The Art of Observation: How to Deepen Your Understanding of the Natural World
In today’s fast-paced world, many of us have lost touch with nature. We rush through life, barely noticing the environment
Tropical Gardening: Fences are used for many purposes
This will be my last column until sometime in November. We will be traveling in Europe and maybe North Africa
Teachers of Hawaiian Culture: Nurturing Our Keiki and Preserving Our Heritage
Hawaiian culture is a rich tapestry of history, traditions, and values that have been passed down for generations. At the
Tropical Gardening: Palms grace Italy and even Switzerland
Today’s column comes to you as we head for Italy. We are already missing the tropical ambiance of Hawaii Island
Moss in Medicine: Discover Ancient Healing Traditions
Understanding the Role of Moss in Traditional Medicine Mosses, small and often overlooked plants, have played a significant role in
Tropical Gardening: Manures and other nutrient sources to enrich our young volcanic soils
Our young volcanic soils are often in need of organic matter and nutrients. Where animal manures are available they are
Health Boosting with Pine Needle Tea
Pine needle tea, a natural remedy with a rich history, is gaining popularity for its numerous health benefits. Made from
Tropical Gardening: Color to brighten fall gardening with flowering plants and trees
Temperatures remain warm but things are about to change. Fall will officially arrive Sept. 22 in the northern hemisphere since
Kick Off Your Shoes: The Joys of Walking Barefoot in Nature
Walking barefoot in nature is a simple yet profound experience that has captivated humans for centuries. There’s something undeniably refreshing
Tropical Gardening: When is a weed not a weed?
Is it a weed? A weed may be defined as any plant growing in the wrong place. Some folks even
Blue Lotus: Ancient Egyptian Healing Flower
Imagine a flower so revered that it was depicted on the walls of ancient tombs, celebrated in religious rituals, and
Tropical Gardening: Consider source when using mulch and compost to improve soils
Many folks are now improving new and established gardens with mulch, but be wary of where you get it. It
Tropical Gardening: Deforestation affects more than just trees
We recently returned from a family wedding at Lake Chelan in Eastern Washington. What was most notable was the region
The Significance of Koa Wood to the Ancient Hawaiians
Koa wood, known for its rich color and striking grain, has long held a special place in Hawaiian culture. For
Tropical Gardening: East meets West in Hawaii gardens
In Hawaii, China and Japan, rock and water are used to add interest to the garden. The stone water basins
The Importance of the Kukui Nut Tree (Canoe Plant): Discover It at the Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary
The Kukui nut tree, also known as the Candlenut tree, holds a special place in Hawaiian culture and history. Known
Tropical Gardening: The macadamia tree comes from the land down under
Like many other trees from Australia, the macadamia thrives in Hawaii. Others suited to the Islands are many grevillea, melaleuca,
The Legend of the Ohia Tree and Lehua Flower in Hawaii
Hawaiian mythology is rich with stories that explain the natural world and its many wonders. One such tale is the
Tropical Gardening: Interest in native plants follows Polynesian culture celebration
The recent confluence of Polynesian, Micronesian, Melanesian and other Pacific Ocean cultures has inspired a new interest in landscaping with
The Importance of Cloud Forests to the Coffee Industry: The Role of Kona Coffee in Hawaii
Hawaii is renowned for its unique and flavorful Kona coffee, which has become a symbol of the state’s agricultural excellence.
Tropical Gardening: Warm summer days bring rampant growing shrubs and turf
Whether you have a home with a large yard or an apartment with a small lanai, plants create a more
From Mauka to Makai: The Interconnected Family Dynamics of Ahupua’a
At the heart of Hawaiian culture lies the concept of Ahupua’a, a traditional land division system that embodies the interconnectedness
Tropical Gardening: What would Hawaii be without palms?
Until recently, palms in Hawaii have had relatively few serious insect and disease problems. Unlike Florida and the Caribbean, we
Cultural Significance of Ahupuaʻa in Hawaii: How Protecting Our Cloud Forests Benefits Our Oceans & Vice Versa
Introduction Hawaii is a land of rich cultural heritage and breathtaking natural beauty. One of the most intriguing aspects of
Tropical Gardening: Father’s Day origin is not that old
Mother’s Day has been celebrated long before Judaism, Christianity, and Islam in one form or another. Art in early cultures
Understanding Ahupuaʻa: A Guide to Ancient Hawaiian Land Division
Introduction to Ahupuaʻa The concept of Ahupuaʻa is fundamental to understanding the people of Hawaii’s traditional approach to land management
World Oceans Month: Facts About Oceans & The Roles Oceans Play on Earth
World Oceans Month, celebrated every June, is a time to honor, appreciate, and raise awareness about the vital role oceans
Tropical Gardening: Hurricane season officially starts today
What does hurricane season mean for us in Hawaii? The old adage, June is too soon, July-standby, August-a must, September
The History of Huehue Ranch
Huehue Ranch stands as a testament to Hawaii’s dynamic history, blending the legacies of ancient kings and modern environmental stewardship.
Tropical Gardening: Hot summer days ideal for mango and papaya
Hawaii is known for our lush tropical gardens but much of our land especially on the leeward side is desert.
The Soothing Power of Birdsong: How 15 Minutes a Day Can Calm Your Nervous System
In a world increasingly dominated by urban noise and digital distractions, finding moments of tranquility can be a challenge. However,
Tropical Gardening: Invasive insects and disease far worse than most weeds
We tend to freak out when a new invasive plant species arrives in our islands, but most spread relatively slowly.
Mālama ʻĀina: Mental Health Awareness and Nature
Introduction Join us as we delve into the essence of Mālama ʻĀina and its profound connection to nurturing our mental
Tropical Gardening: Tomorrow is Mother’s Day
You still have time to shop today at the Old Kona Airport Kona Orchid Society Spring Show and Sale. It
Mālama ʻĀina: History and Importance in Hawaiian Culture
Hawaii, with its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, holds a profound concept at the core of its identity
Tropical Gardening: Mother’s Day celebration predates Christianity
Next Sunday is Mother’s Day and there is still time for last-minute gifts for the ladies in your life. Before
Tropical Gardening: May Day is Lei Day
May Day is Lei Day in Hawaii but we celebrate flowers of all kinds all year long. Traditionally, everyone should
Honoring Earth Day: Embracing Aloha Aina and Environmental Stewardship
Join us as we celebrate Earth Day and the unique connection between Hawai’i and the spirit of Aloha Aina. Join
Tropical Gardening: Celebrate Hawaii Island chocolate this week
As the Hawaii Island cacao industry continues to expand, it is time to celebrate with the 11th Annual Big Island
Aloha ʻĀina: Embracing Regenerative Practices in Hawai’i
Aloha ʻĀina Understanding Aloha ʻĀina Aloha ʻĀina, a fundamental principle deeply ingrained in Hawaiian culture, embodies the reciprocal relationship between