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You  are in luck if you read this column early today and can make the Plant People Road Show at the Old Kona Airport Pavilion starting at 8 AM and closing at 1 PM. There will be choice plants for Valentine Day gifts, especially rare orchids and anthuriums. Then you still have time to zip…

In today’s fast-paced world, finding moments of tranquility and connection with nature can feel like a luxury. However, there’s a serene haven waiting to be explored: the cloud forest. The Charm of Cloud Forests Cloud forests, with their ethereal mist and lush greenery, offer a surreal experience unlike any other. Walking through these forests feels…

Days are a bit chilly but are getting longer. However, there is a noticeble spring fever effect when it comes to local gardeners because many fragrant flowering plants start blooming at this time. Also, Valentines Day is right around the corner so it is time to shop for gifts. The PLANT PEOPLE ROAD SHOW is…

The island of Hawai’i, is a paradise that beckons travelers from around the globe with its pristine beaches, lush landscapes, and vibrant culture. Let’s dive deeper into each of the top 15 hidden gem must-do activities on Hawai’i island: Body Glove Ocean Activities – Immerse yourself in the enchanting underwater world of Kona with Body…

Today’s column comes to you as we head for Italy. We are already missing the tropical ambiance of Hawaii Island and won’t be back until two days before the Nov. 5 election. We especially want to be home for that event. Palms play an important role in creating a tropical ambiance and some species have…

Understanding the Role of Moss in Traditional Medicine Mosses, small and often overlooked plants, have played a significant role in traditional medicine across the globe. These non-vascular plants, thriving in moist environments, are packed with unique properties that make them valuable in treating various ailments. From ancient European folk remedies to the sacred healing practices…

Our young volcanic soils are often in need of organic matter and nutrients. Where animal manures are available they are probably the best source of fertilizer. Compost and mulch can also help to add and hold nutrients. Sources vary but one of the best is Hawaiian Earth Recycling. According to Gerald Kosaki, general manager, the…

Pine needle tea, a natural remedy with a rich history, is gaining popularity for its numerous health benefits. Made from the needles of certain pine trees, this tea is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients that can boost your health in various ways.  What is Pine Needle Tea? Pine needle tea has been…

Temperatures remain warm but things are about to change. Fall will officially arrive Sept. 22 in the northern hemisphere since the sun will move south of the equator. The autumnal equinox for us is spring for those south of the equator. As the earth tips to the north the sun appears to move further from…

Walking barefoot in nature is a simple yet profound experience that has captivated humans for centuries. There’s something undeniably refreshing about the feeling of grass, sand, or soil underfoot. But beyond the immediate sensation, there are numerous physical, mental, and even spiritual benefits to walking barefoot that many people are rediscovering. In this article, we’ll…

Is it a weed? A weed may be defined as any plant growing in the wrong place. Some folks even think a plant that is not native is a weed, but with that mind set, even the coconut palm is not native and could be considered a weed. Perhaps an even better definition is “a…

Imagine a flower so revered that it was depicted on the walls of ancient tombs, celebrated in religious rituals, and believed to possess both healing and mystical powers. The Blue Lotus, also known as Nymphaea caerulea, is one such flower that held profound significance in ancient Egyptian culture. This enigmatic bloom was more than just…