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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…

Many folks are now improving new and established gardens with mulch, but be wary of where you get it. It is possible to spread insects like the coconut rhinoceros beetle, sugarcane borer and fire ants as well as some diseases. The best source of mulch is one you make or one that is not made…

We recently returned from a family wedding at Lake Chelan in Eastern Washington. What was most notable was the region that was once desert is now a land of vineyards and fruit orchards. However, there were very few birds, wildlife and even insects. The contrast with Hawaii’s abundant and varied wildlife was astounding. It was…

Koa wood, known for its rich color and striking grain, has long held a special place in Hawaiian culture. For the ancient Hawaiians, Koa was not just a material but a symbol of strength, resilience, and artistry. The word “koa” itself means “warrior” in the Hawaiian language, reflecting the wood’s association with courage and valor….

In Hawaii, China and Japan, rock and water are used to add interest to the garden. The stone water basins that usually stand outside the teahouses are an example of rock and water used on a small scale. Participants in the tea ceremony first wash their hands and at the same time, symbolically wash away…