Forestter Blog

As the Hawaii Island cacao industry continues to expand, it is time to celebrate with the 11th Annual Big Island Chocolate Festival from Thursday, April 25 through Saturday, April 27. According to Fern Gavelek, the event culminates with the “Mystical Chocolate Masquerade” gala offering everything from sweet to savory. Participants will be able to enjoy a cornucopia of culinary creations at the Waikoloa Beach Marriot Resort and Spa. There will be music and dance at the gala however the festival is more than fun. Stephanie Beeby, event chairperson, says the main purpose of the festival is to educate the general public, cacao farmers and potential cacao farmers on growing, processing and marketing our local chocolate. Tickets and information to all events can be obtained at info@BigIslandChocolateFestival.com. We sometimes think of mood enhancing drugs with trepidation but they have been part of the human condition for thousands of years. For example, chocolate is associated with enhancing romance. Many years ago, cocoa and tea were considered commercial crops in Hawaii, along with coffee. They grew well and produced very good quality, but could not compete on the world market. High labor costs and inadaquate marketing were probably the limiting factors. Even marajuana was grown legally in the past and is again seriously considered as a legal medicinal and recreational drug. As we look at potential profitable crops, there are some to consider that most folks would approve. Hawaiian kava, okolehao and mamake come to mind since they are uniquely associated with Hawaiian culture. However, as we look at new and interesting ways to garden and farm, we sometimes find a new look at old crops gives us a new perspective. Cacao is one that looks very promising now due to the interest of local farmers, retailers and foodies. They organized to form the Kona Cacao Association and along with many other local organizations are presenting the 2024 Big Island Chocolate Festival. For more information, call Stephanie Beeby at 808 201-2000. Cocoa, or Theobroma cacao as it is known scientifically, is ornamental as well as useful. What Mother’s Day, or any day for that matter, is complete without chocolate? In Central America and Mexico, cacao was grown for more than 4,000 years and considered the “Food of the gods” by the Mokaya and Olmec people. Cocoa and tea both grow well on the Big Island. Even though cocoa is thought to be a native to the Amazon area close to the equator, it may have been grown in Mexico for thousands of years. In places like Borneo, Africa’s Ivory Coast and similar regions where labor is cheap and the climate is ideal, cacao is a major crop. The problem with some production regions is that there are few restrictions on the use of pesticides. Hawaii on the other hand can produce crops free of chemicals and thus promote organicly grown chocolate and ask much higher prices for their crop. There are literally thousands of acres available here where the climate is warm, steamy and wet like in East Hawaii and Kona. It is also found in many gardens growing well on the island, however cocoa plants do not like drying winds or beach locations. Tea plants may also be found in Big Island gardens. Most folks believe tea is a crop grown in and confined to equatorial countries. This however is a misconception. Tea grows in a wide range of climates and may be grown in areas extending from equatorial to temperate zones. For example, it grows in Southern Russia near the Caucasian mountains on the latitude of 40 degrees N, and in Argentina near the latitude 30 degrees S. It grows well up to 5,000 feet in Kaloko mauka. Tea belongs to the camellia family. Its correct botanical name is Camellia sinensis, and is closely related to horticultural varieties which bloom magnificently in many home gardens and public parks. The tea plant is an attractive evergreen shrub native to Assam. There are about a thousand varieties known which differ in flower and shade of green leaves as well as flavor when brewed. The stimulating drink was originally used medicinally but since the fifth century has been the chief beverage in China. It became popular in Europe in the seventeenth century and was America’s chief beverage until the Boston Tea Party. An alkaloid, like caffeine, and a volatile oil give tea its flavor. Long brewing extracts tannin which is bitter and not considered beneficial. Locating plants is not easy but once planted and established, maintenance is no trouble. Some nurseries do carry tea and cocoa plants on occasion. These crops are usually grown where labor costs are low.In Hawaii, tea and cocoa are worth considering for a more interesting garden as well as boutique crops like Kona coffee. Mamaki tea made from the leaves of Pepturus albidus may also be found on the local market. But okolehao, an alcoholic drink made from the roots of the Hawaiian ti plant, Cordyline fruticosa, is not easy to find however, it has potential. There are many other plant based drinks like soursop tea that have possibilities as well. With creative farming and marketing, the sky is the limit as we have found with Hawaiian chocolate.

As the sun gets stronger, many shrubs, trees and especially vines can grow at a rapid pace. This makes vines great for covering unsightly fences like concrete or chain link. Good fences and hedges make good neighbors goes the old saying, and maybe in the old days it was the case. Stone walls are traditional and impressive, but expensive. Today, we have so many choices that an unattractive fence or hedge might create all kinds of neighbor problems depending on type of material used. Bougainvillea are interesting plants from South America. They can be kept as beautiful hedges, topiaries or allowed to become colorful vines climbing high into a large tree. Some of the best uses are as screening plants along roads to hide unsightly industrial views like those used at the entrance to the Kona airport. Bougainvillea may also be used on wide median strips like the entrance to Kailua. Bougainvillea plants are drought tolerant and flower best in dry sunny climates. Visualize the drive from the Kona Airport to Kailua as an 8-mile riot of color like no other in America and perhaps the world. It would be far less expensive to maintain than grass that takes constant mowing and is usually full of weeds. Probably the main negative is that the plants are often quite thorny. When used in a median strip landscape this is an advantage because it keeps pedestrians and cars from crossing traffic. Screening on smaller home sized landscape may require fences to keep animals or children in bounds. However, chain link, concrete block and many other fence and wall materials do look kind of harsh and unsightly. They just don’t give that luxurious tropical feeling. So here’s where vines make ideal companions. Concrete and chain link make ideal supports for the many types we have available like the red passion flower, jade vine, Kuhio vine, potato vine, creeping fig and many others. Vines serve many purposes for the gardener. Take the one that produces egg-like gourds — it’s ideal for the practical joker. Then there is a vine that specializes in dishcloth production, called the luffa. Bird lovers like flame vine because they attract birds. Other lovers like the privacy vines give them when sitting on the lanai. Many folks like vines because they harbor chameleons, anoles and geckos. Many song birds like vines because they are good nesting locations. And, last but not least, vines are fine because of their attractiveness both in foliage and flowers. Vines lend contrast and character to landscape plantings. They accentuate architectural lines, especially the closely clinging species. Many creepers are adept at introducing color, form and texture onto otherwise uninteresting objects, fences, shrubs or trees. Many gardeners say that vines are the best plants to give their homes an air of tropical living by using them to cover passageways or to form patio walls. Ornamental vines, as a group, are well adapted to a wide range of soils. Most of them thrive in sand, clay, or rock land, provided plant food and moisture are adequate. Soil preparation is most important in a vine planting project. Time spent in improving the soil will insure that you will produce vigorous plants and possibly have trouble-free care later. To get a project underway, spread about 4 inches of compost, peat, leaf mold, or well decomposed manure over the area where the vines will be planted. As a topping, sprinkle the area with fertilizer, and then mix the organic material and soil with a spade. In selecting a location for vines, give them plenty of room. Before planting vines close to a tree, remove the tree roots in the immediate area — but not too many roots, or the tree may die. Such trees as ohia will not stand much root snitching. If you are using a tree to support the vines, don’t let it completely cover the tree or it may be harmful. Some trees like citrus do not do well when competing with vines. The soil at the base of masonry construction often contains trouble-making debris, so remove the contaminated soil to a depth of 18 inches. Replace it with a good soil taken from another location. The planting season for vines is any time the notion strikes you, provided the vines are small, thrifty, container-grown plants. In planting, dig a hole that is larger than the root ball. If the plant is in a container, carefully remove the plant without disturbing the roots and settle it in the hole at the same depth it was in the container. Partially fill in around the plant with soil. Water thoroughly. Finish filling the hole and water again. When two or more vines growing side by side become hopelessly entwined, the effect can indeed be attractive. Vines can complement one another in several different ways: An evergreen vine hides the bareness of a deciduous vine; vines blooming at different seasons extend the flowering season; vines blooming at the same time can display handsome color contrasts or blends. There are dozens of tropical vines available here on the Big Island. The Bengal clock vine, with its sky blue flowers, the garlic vine, the exotic passionflower vines, confederate jasmine and philodendrons are just a few. Check with our local nurseries and get acquainted with what’s available. Also mark your calendar for up coming plant sales like the Kona Orchid Society Orchid Show and Plant Sale, Saturday, May 11th at the Event Pavilion Old Kona Airport Park. Check out the website Konaorchidsociety.org for details.

Easter 2024 has passed but like the Easter lily you received, it may be resurrected after appearing dead. Easter reminds us that life is a cycle of what appears to be death and rebirth. In cooler climates, it is what we learn by observing plants that go dormant in the winter only to sprout anew in the spring. Bulbs like crocus and daffodils are examples. Many types of bulbs are popular this time of year, but the Easter lily with its trumpet flowers is by far the most popular. The lesson taught by the Easter lily is that it will soon begin to fade after we celebrate the holiday only to come back to life. These beautiful flowers give us pleasure, but we often don’t realize how much effort goes into producing that flower right at Easter. The lily did not really become part of our modern tradition until the early 20th Century when World War I soldier Louis Houghton brought what was then called the Bermuda lily to Southern Oregon. Commercial flower growers began to grow and promote them for the holiday. Some Bible references to support using the lily are found in the Sermon on the Mount. “Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow. They toil not, neither do they spin and yet Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.” It is also said that lilies were discovered blooming in abundance in the garden of Gethsemane after Christ died on the cross, signifying the resurrection of Jesus and hope of eternal life. So instead of throwing that fading plant away this year, why not attempt to make it bloom for next Easter and each year thereafter? You can place the plant in a sunny, garden location or even keep it in the pot until fall. Easter lily, Lilium longiflorum, bulbs consist of scales growing from a core. When exposed to the air too long, scales lose their moisture and shrivel. Once they become dehydrated, the bulb is gone. You can store them for a short period if you keep them cool and put them in a moist medium such as sponge rock or peat. However, it is better to replant the bulbs right after digging them up, cleaning them, and looking for signs of disease such as basal rot. Recondition the soil where the bulbs are to go. It should be rich in humus, which contains the helpful microorganisms. A well balanced slow release plant food should be added and mixed with the soil. The depth at which you should plant a bulb depends upon its size. The rule of thumb is 2 times the diameter of the bulb. This means, if you have a jumbo bulb that measures 2 inches in diameter, there would be a space of 4 inches between the top of the bulb and soil surface. Amaryllis is an exception, though. If planted in the ground, the top of the bulb should be just under the soil surface. In a pot, almost half of the amaryllis bulb should be sticking up above the soil. Growers usually favor an inorganic bulb fertilizer high in potash. Some say that organic fertilizers such as dried blood, tankage and cottonseed meal stimulate Fusarium fungus that causes basal rot. However, fish emulsions used in diluted form seem to cause no ill effects. These give excellent results in foliage color and growth, as well as flower development and bulb size. A complete fertilizer is important for success. This should be applied two or three times during the growing season to keep the bulbs vigorous for next year’s growth. Mulching is recommended to keep soil from drying. This is good for both ground and pot culture. If you want to grow Easter lilies in pots, line the bottom of the pot with an inch of gravel or cinder and fill the pot half full of soil. Place the bulb at the right depth for its size and then add soil mixture to within about an inch of the rim. Naturally, the larger the bulb, the larger the size of the pot. Remember, lilies are heavy feeders. The bulbs require plenty of sun, as do almost all bulbs. Locate the plants in a sunny location until at least mid-afternoon. Sunset’s ‘New Western Garden Book’ gives details for many other bulbs. If you want to keep your bulbs from year to year, remember not to remove any part of the stem until it has dried. The real secret to getting the plants to bloom right on time is to give the resting bulbs a five to six week “chill” in the refrigerator at 35 to 45 degrees F. After chilling, the bulbs are potted so that they have approximately 120 days until flowering. The timing won’t be exact because of variables like temperature and bulb variety. For guaranteed success in bulb growing, try some of the easier types like amaryllis. These bulbs must have a little lime or crushed coral in the soil in which they are grown. They do well in either ground or pots. Very few bulbs can stand deep shade. Most require plenty of sun to induce flowering. They will grow but seldom flower when planted in shade. An exception to this would be Calla lilies and Clivia. For more information on bulb gardening, contact the UH Master Gardeners at 322-4893 in Kona or 981-5199 in Hilo.

Since we live in a multicultural place with a great variety of climatic and geographic expressions, we can create almost anything in our gardens. Orchids, bromeliads and other epiphytes and lithophytes are perfect for gardens lacking in soil. We also have an abundance of lava rock! In many other parts of the world, rock and water elements are used in the landscape to create a natural feeling and add interest to the design. Balinese gardens usually include not only naturalistic forms, but often, sculptured elements as well. In Japan, the stone water basins that stand outside the teahouses are an example of rock and water used on a small scale. In almost any garden, the gentle sound and sight of water running over cool stones is refreshing. Here on the Volcano Island, we have fantastic rock formations with which to work, and we have sufficient water to create outstanding landscapes. Many of the newer developments in West Hawaii are using the rough and rugged lava fields that can be experienced by visiting some of the resorts along the coast of West Hawaii. Unfortunately, the typical lots being developed are quickly cleared with no thought to the natural lay of the land. If you are considering incorporating rock and water elements into your landscape, there are several ways to expand your imagination. Of course you could take a trip to Bali or Japan, but a less expensive way is to check out what other local landscape designers have created at sites like Kona Village Resort, Four Seasons, Waikoloa, Hapuna or the Mauna Kea Beach Hotels for example. You might think these places are too expensive for the average pocketbook, but luckily the beaches are open to the public. You can enjoy the beauty of rock and water gardens nearby or you might splurge and have a meal at one of the many restaurants. Breakfast and lunch are reasonably priced. Another way to get ideas is to check out the numerous books on the subject at local libraries and bookstores. Many private and public gardens utilize natural rock and water to create a peaceful effect. Of course, there are numerous landscape architects and landscape contractors who can assist you as well. Before you start to work, here are some tips to help you avoid mistakes. A rock and water garden may be located in a sunny exposed area but shade is usually better. Sunny locations require plants that tolerate intense sun and even drought. Cool and shady locations allow for a greater selection of plant materials that fit a water garden setting. Of course if you live in an area where it rains for weeks at a time, you might want to select a sunny spot for your creation. There are always exceptions to the rule. In selecting rock, avoid little piles. Use large boulder types where possible. Our native lava is beautiful, but may weigh several hundreds of pounds. It takes heavy equipment to move these types or lots of guys with muscles. Watch out for your back and maybe a lawsuit if someone gets hurt. You will probably be better off contacting a contractor who has the kind of equipment you need. Placing rock takes a special talent, but if you are good at placing furniture just right, then you shouldn’t have to much trouble. Guys, if your wife is the one with the artistic eye and she has you moving the furniture back and fourth a dozen times before it is right, then watch out for her rock placing practices! Place the rocks so that there will be little nooks and crannies for planting as well as an interesting pattern for water flow. Pool construction need not be difficult or expensive with the new material available. Obviously, you need a water proof basin in which to hold the water. This can be constructed with concrete and wire mesh for a permanent pool or you may use a heavy polyethylene plastic for one that is less permanent. I experimented with a small eight by fifteen foot pool using ten mil plastic four layers thick. It is 10 years old and still holds water, fish and water plants with a minimum of care. The total cost of the pool was about $50. To move water and create a cascade or flow, you will need a small circulating pump. A good one may be purchased for less than two hundred dollars. Some folks just camouflage a garden hose and run water over the rock formation when they have company or are just in the mood. Once you have your water garden in order, consider growing water lilies and other interesting water plants. You can’t beat water lilies for adding a flare of brilliant color to garden ponds. They may even be grown in big tubs, pots or urns filled with water. Tropical water lilies surpass our more common types for their spectacular flower size. The colors range from shades of blue and purple to unusual orange tints. You can grow day blooming types combined with night bloomers for 24-hour enjoyment. Many other aquatics may be grown as well. Lotus, papyrus, water lettuce and hyacinths all add to the enjoyment of a water garden. To avoid mosquito problems, you should add mosquito eating fish, a few frogs and toads, some bug eating lizards, and before you know it you have created your own little ecosystems to enjoy. Norman Bezona is professor emeritus, University of Hawaii College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources.

Tropical Asia is well known for its spectacular rainforests loaded with many species of palms and carnivorous Nepenthes pitcher plants but it is easy to miss the tropical Vireya Rhododendrons growing as epiphytes high in the tops of gigantic trees. Most folks spend their time looking at terrestrial plants, or avoiding leeches, snakes and other jungle critters. Throughout the northwest U.S. and Japan, one of the highlights of spring is the mass blooming of azaleas and rhododendrons. In Hawaii, these attractive garden shrubs are popular in cool, mauka areas. Now Vireya Rhododendrons are becoming available throughout the year as more nurseries and gardeners are becoming aware of them. If you’re not quite sure about the tropical rhododendrons and how to grow them, then get acquainted with the experts by joining our new local Vireya Club. The members are great in sharing plants to try in your own garden. The group meets on the third Sunday of each month at 12:30 pm. It is a brown bag lunch with tours of local gardens. For more information contact Lucy Albright at (808) 315-9345. Sadly, after years of dedication to the Hawaii chapter of the American Rhododendron Society, Sherla Bertelmann has retired so the chapter is no longer active. Mahalo Sherla for being instrumental in the education on growing, propagation and distribution of this amazing family of flowering shrubs. A big mahalo to Lucy for continuing to move forward with Sherla’s efforts and love for tropical rhododendrons. Vireyas are a part of a small but widely distributed family found in many parts of tropical Asia. They usually grow in cool, moist regions like Malaysia, Indonesia and the Himalayas. Some species are even found on high mountains like Mount Kinabalu in Borneo. Many are adapted to warm and moist temperate regions. Many have found Hawaii a good place to live, especially in forest areas protected from wind. Here they may be grown in organic cinder and soil mixes but if the conditions are just right, they may grow on rocks or as epiphytes along with orchids, ferns and bromeliads. Some species and varieties you will find on the market bloom in brilliant reds, whites, pinks, salmons and even mixes of white-pink and white-red. Typical azalea relatives are slow to moderate growing in Hawaii. A good specimen six to eight inches high takes at least two years to reach their prime flowering. These reach our local markets in early spring. They are not easily grown from cuttings. That is why a gift of an azalea is something special. On the other hand many Vireyas may be easily grown from cuttings and can become large shrubs or small trees. This family of flowering plants is extremely variable, but have certain characteristics in common. When you buy a potted Vireya or Azalea living bouquet, they are easy to care for if you follow a few simple rules. Plants won’t tolerate a daily scrub-down, but they will take on a healthy look with an occasional leaf washing. Dirty foliage is unattractive. If the leaves get heavy with dust or sooty mold, wash them off with water. This will discourage insect and mite buildup. The proper watering of plants is more important than giving them a bath. In general, plants require a thorough soaking at least once a week. In warmer temperatures, plants in containers may require more water. Applying too little moisture may allow the soil in the bottom of the container to dry out, causing the plant to wilt or die. On the other hand, keeping the plant roots soggy wet will also cause injury. Make sure the pot has sufficient drainage. When planted in the garden, they are much happier. Where rainfall is sufficient, they take almost no care. We have grown quite a few in Kaloko Mauka, and they are happy unless we have an extended dry period. Azaleas and Vireyas grow well at temperatures between 60 and 70 degrees. Therefore, protect the plants from being broiled alive by direct sun, hot or windy areas. In cool mauka areas, they may be placed in sun. Like people, they like their food served at regular intervals. Special acid azalea fertilizers are available. The best suggestion of feeding is to follow the directions on the plant food container. Since they are slow growers, they should only need fertilizer once every two to three months. Here are some tips on diagnosing plant troubles. Brown tips or burned margins may mean you’ve applied too much fertilizer, you’ve let the plant roots dry out, or you’ve let the plant become wind burned. Yellowing of leaves indicates over watering, poor drainage, or poor soil aeration. Small leaves suggest a tight or heavy soil mixture, lack of fertilizer, or not enough moisture. Weak growth or light green color on otherwise healthy foliage indicates too much light, lack of fertilizer, root-rot, or poor root systems. Yellowing, wilting, or soft growth means too much heat or root injury. Remember, azaleas and Vireyas require an acid high organic soil. If you decide to plant them in the garden or repot them, give plants a mix high in peat moss. Make sure you don’t plant them in soils that are high in calcium. Avoid planting in concrete containers, near sidewalks or concrete foundations since these contain calcium and will cause nutrient deficiencies. Also remember, they should not be planted near the ocean or in hot, dry or windy areas. It is not always easy to find Vireya Rhododendrons at garden shops and nurseries. The best bet is to get acquainted with folks in the local club. Their meetings are free and they often have plants to share.

It is time to think about planting your fall vegetable garden. This week and for the next few weeks let’s consider landscapes that feed us. You might even want to take the organic approach. Since our soils have lost many nutrients let’s look at the best sources to consider. Where animal manures are available, they are probably the best sources of nutrients for the organic gardener. After planting, using cow, horse or hog manure, side dress with up to five pounds per 100 square feet. When applying a side dress, scatter the manure at the edge of the root zone and work lightly into the soil surface. If mulch is present, rake it back at the edge of the root zone in order to apply the manure, then recover with the mulch. Remember, manure is not always a complete balanced fertilizer. It is advantageous to broadcast a complete fertilizer such as organic 8-8-8 plus trace elements or ground rock phosphate and potash in addition to the manures. Compost is an alternative to animal manure; it should be applied as you would manure. Broadcast it over the entire vegetable garden area three weeks or more before planting. Or if you have only a small quantity of compost, it may be mixed into the soil. In all cases, apply it at the rate of about 25 pounds per 100 square feet. Natural and organic materials that yield plant nutrients upon decomposition are often available for purchase either separately or in combination. These materials may be applied separately or combined, used in the compost pile or mixed with manure. Many of the more commonly available materials include both the organic materials derived from plants and animals, plus the natural deposits of rocks and minerals. Such naturally-occurring materials are usually not easily obtained in today’s modern agriculture. However, where available, they are sources of mainly potash, phosphorus and lime (calcium and magnesium) for organic gardeners. Rock phosphates are natural deposits of phosphate in combination with calcium. Rock phosphate yields its phosphorous very slowly. When finely ground and with impurities removed, the powdery material is only slightly soluble in water, but may be beneficial to plants in subsequent seasons following application. The reaction of phosphate rock with acids from decaying organic matter in the garden or compost tend to make the phosphorus more readily available to plants. If the soil is alkaline, phosphorus may not be available. Apply ground rock phosphate at the rate of two to three pounds per 100 square feet of garden soil or, when applying manure or compost, mix a the rate of 2-1/2 pounds phosphate per 25 pounds of manure or compost. Broadcast the material over the soil surface and work into the topsoil at least three weeks before planting. Manure or other organic fertilizer should be added at this time. Since the rock phosphates are so slowly decomposed, side dressings are seldom beneficial. Potash or potassium is widely distributed in nature, occurring in rocks, soils, and the tissues of plants and animals. In gardening practice, materials such as wood ashes, banana skins, seaweed, potash salts and ground rock potash are used alone, in combination with other materials yielding other nutrients, and mixed with manure or in compost piles. Since the potash-bearing materials vary so much in composition and rate of decomposition, specific application rates must be determined for each material and its combination. An advantage for using organic materials as fertilizers is that they contain many of the elements also needed by the plants such as zinc and iron. Reducing the acidity of the soil is the primary purpose for using lime in the garden. However, liming materials also provide nutrients for plant use. Calcium and magnesium are the two elements most commonly provided by dolomitic lime. Natural deposits of lime that an organic gardener might use are crushed coral, dolomite and shell. All these forms must be finely ground to provide maximum benefit to the soil and plants. Lime to sweeten the soil should be applied only when the needs have been established by a reliable soil test. Under most soil conditions, application of two to three pounds of finely ground dolomitic limestone per 100 square feet usually will be sufficient except on very acid soils. Apply lime well in advance of the planting date, preferably two to three months before the garden is planted. Mix well with the soil and keep moist for best reaction. If all this sounds complicated, don’t be discouraged. Not everyone is a soils chemist! There are some great books at local garden shops that will help. Also, the University of Hawaii College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources Master Gardeners are available to assist. You may call 322-4893 in Kona or 981-5199 in Hilo. Norman Bezona is professor emeritus, University of Hawaii College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources.

It seems bizarre that many plants from some of the most ancient geological regions of the world readily adapt to Hawaii’s young volcanic soils. Some in Hawaii are from Australia and ancient islands like Madagascar and New Caledonia. When it comes to strange animals and plants, Australia is in the lead for its share of the unusual to unique. This ancient mini continent has mammals that lay eggs to the marsupials that carry their premature babies in pouches. Recent fires put many in the animal kingdom at risk and the plant kingdom as well. Some Australian ecosystems will be altered for centuries and some may never recover. Even though there are many species yet to be discovered, it is fortunate that some valuable plants have been introduced to our Islands before their extinction, Examples of palms that were thought to be extinct and then rediscovered are the Carpentaria and Wodyetia palms. Thanks to members of the International Palm Society, they are now popular landscape trees in tropical gardens around the world. Some introductions have found Hawaii so inviting that we consider them weeds. A better definition for them could be pioneer species that are attempting to heal the wounds that humans and nature have created. The octopus tree (Schefflera actinophylla) and the silver oak (Grevillea robusta) are two examples. They tend to readily grow where the land is disturbed. If we were to be careful in protecting our native landscapes, trees like these would not be a problem. Be it as it may, let’s take a moment and forget their robust tendencies and appreciate them for their beauty. The silver oaks with their bizarre orange inflorescence may be seen in full flower along the Mamalahoa Highway in West Hawaii. Try to appreciate them from an artist’s perspective and recognize that they are like other trees, sequestering carbon and producing oxygen. Some woodworkers like Kim O. Christensen have recognized the value of silver oak for flooring and furniture. The old adage “One man’s meat is another man’s poison” might be appropriate here, but “Turning lemons into lemonade” might be better applied. Another example is that of the macadamia. When it was introduced to Hawaii, the nut was inferior, but UH researchers and farmers worked on selecting superior varieties to make it one of the best and expensive nuts on the market. The Protea family is primarily found south of the equator in Africa, South America and Australia. It includes the genera Macadamia, Banksia, Grevillea, Hakea, Hicksbeachia and Stenocarpus. Of all the many floral choices available in the marketplace, none can beat the bizarre yet enhancing beauty of the Protea family. From the robust, intense-colored sunburst pincushion to the deceiving duchess that looks more like feathers than a flower, Proteas resemble no other flowers in the world. Even the common reforestation tree, silver oak (Grevillea robusta) has a striking inflorescence. Silver oaks are often maligned because they tend to naturalize in abandoned pastureland, but one of the most colorful landscapes in West Hawaii and Ka‘u occurs in the spring when silver oak and jacaranda bloom. Most Proteas require cool climates on the dryer side like Waimea, Volcano, West Hawaii, Ka‘u and Maui. They prefer well drained soils. When grown in wet or humid locations, disease and pests become a problem. Even if you are not interested in growing Proteas commercially, you can be certain that these gorgeous and exotic flowers are perfect to enhance your home, garden or be a special, long lasting gift. If you receive some as a gift, remember that Proteas have another advantage besides their remarkable attractiveness. They can be easily dried and enjoyed for a long time to come. All you have to do is remove the water from the container when the flowers start to lose their freshness and allow the flowers to dry into a permanent arrangement. Another method is to hang the flowers upside down for about a month, and then use them in a dry flower arrangement. To eliminate the possibility of mold setting in during drying, space the flowers out to allow a good circulation of air. This latter method is especially suited to types that have a tendency to bend over as they lose their freshness. If you are not familiar with Protea group, ask your local florist to show you the various types now being produced, what each is called, and how long they will last. If you’re looking for something special, Proteas are worth checking out. Other long lasting floral gifts include dendrobium, cymbidium orchids, anthurium, bird of paradise, heliconia and other flowering Hawaiian exotics. For further information on the Protea family, contact your local UH College of Tropical Agriculture Extension Service office. Master Gardeners there can help you with pertinent information. In Hilo the number is 981-5199 or call Kona 322-4893. Several books are available like Sunset’s Western Garden Book to give you tips on growing these amazing plants. Norman Bezona is professor emeritus, University of Hawaii College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources.

We normally worry about hurricanes raising havoc from June through November, but some severe storms can occur almost any month, especially March. Trees, shrubs and other vegetation are the lungs of the planet, so the more the better especially in urban and suburban settings.  Some of our ancient historical trees like the banyan at Kona’s King Kamehameha Beach Hotel get so big we tend to over prune them to keep them in scale. This amazing tree is the first thing visitors see as they enter by ship at Kailua Bay so it is important that the tree is properly maintained. The spectacular banyans that frame Banyan Drive in Hilo are another example of unique trees needing love and attention. The East Hawaii Outdoor Circle has been instrumental in protecting them. Certified arborists or companies that specialize in tree care can do the job without negatively affecting the health of our trees. The loss of these truly amazing members of the fig family would be tragic. Imagine the destruction of the Malayan Banyans on Banyan Drive. The Great Banyan on the grounds of Kona’s Hulihe’e Palace is another that is now protected but a few decades ago, there was concern it might be cut down. Coconut palms also need pruning where nuts may fall and create a problem, but they often over pruned causing a condition called pencil top. This plus fungus diseases carried by pruning equipment can damage and even kill palms. Ideally, the less leaves removed allows for the trees to look better and be healthier.   March is a good time to prune. The sun’s intensity is still low so the newly exposed branches are not likely to sunburn as they would in summer. By proper pruning, we increase light availability to understory plants. Since some light is essential to plant vigor, it is a good idea to open up these heavily canopied trees. Even when we are careful to select the right trees for the landscape, and shade lovers for underneath, there comes a time when we must consider pruning. Whatever the natural form is in the beginning, it should be maintained, and this means individual handling of each problem.  Trees should be pruned in such a manner as to remove enough of the canopy so as to allow gale force winds through the tree. Most tree experts agree that heavily topped or hat racked trees will be more susceptible to disease and insect attacks, so this practice is not recommended.  Pruning should be done for a purpose, such as to maintain the natural shape, remove diseased or awkward branches, or to reduce the size of a vigorous grower. Pruning becomes an important chore for several reasons.  Trees that respond to day length and bloom during the winter or spring months should be pruned through the summer months.   Many of our tropical trees grow rampant with extensive root systems.  That is why we prune to keep them from getting out of hand, but let’s not forget the roots may need some pruning too. This is best done after hurricane season. The trouble with roots of many big trees such as banyans is that they are greedy. Fortunately, there are many landscape plants like Monstera, Pothos, Philodendron species, Bromeliad species and ground covers like Ruellia and Mondo that will tolerate these conditions. Pruning trees and their roots can be dangerous, so if the job is major, it is better to call in a qualified arborist to do the job.  This will also aid you in avoiding a butcher job that will cost a lot more in the long run. When it comes to fertilization, it is better to keep it on the light side until early spring. Then an application of a complete fertilizer containing nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium plus trace elements will carry trees until spring. Trees are part of the beauty of our islands. They supply oxygen and sequester carbon. They also cool the environment as our weather is getting warmer and warmer. Rather than destroying these valuable assets, work with them.  Proper selection of plants to grow under their protective canopy is important.  Proper pruning, fertilization and irrigation is a must, but it is much better than paving over Paradise. For more information on tree care, contact the UH Master Gardener Helpline at 322-4893 in Kona or 981-5199 in Hilo 

The question is, are genetically modified organisms good or bad? The answer is that it all depends on how the technology is used. The issue of genetically modified plants or animals is very complex as is any new technology. Actually, the GMO issue is just a new twist on what we humans have been doing for centuries. By hybridizing, creating, and selecting advantageous mutations, we have created thousands of varieties of orchids, citrus, bananas and many others. Because it is a great leap of this technology, we tend to be wary and that is good. For example, electrical power can be used in a way as to make our lives better or it can kill. Even the discovery of nuclear power and its use or misuse can be argued. Probably the first human to create a fire was considered a witch. That is not to say that we should rush head on into new technologies without recognizing that they may have serious downsides. On the other extreme, do we want to simply reject advances in science because we might create a Frankenstein monster? A healthy and respectful dialogue is important as we explore any new technology. To totally ban all GMOs to be grown or sold would be throwing out the baby with the bath water. Farmers need to have the opportunity to choose if they want to grow their crops organically, or with safe use of pesticides or GMO free as long as we consumers know what we are buying. At the very least, foods should be labeled GMO or no GMO so that we have a choice. Let’s take a look at just one example. Papayas have been valuable food and medicinal plants throughout the tropical world. In the early 1950s, a devastating disease called Papaya Ring Spot Mosaic wiped out the papaya industry in Florida and many areas of Tropical America including the Caribbean. Later, the disease hit Hawaii. Luckily some scientists were working on the problem and were able to develop a genetically modified papaya that was resistant to the mosaic virus. Today we can grow papaya plants in regions that were previously virus infested thanks to those efforts. There are many examples of new technologies being misused. Taken to the extreme genetically modified organisms could be used to create neon cats that glow in the dark or working with the technology to give humans protection from such diseases as ebola, dengue, zika, chikungunya, monkeypox, COVID and other viruses that are causing havoc in many parts of the world. Several experimental vaccines are now being tested because of this technology. Can you imagine using the technology to help our endemic honeycreepers resist the ravages of disease, thus allowing them to again populate our islands in abundance! Since folks will be discussing the pros and cons of GMOs for years to come, let’s just focus on growing healthy, virus free papayas in your home garden! Papaya plants are a natural for almost any garden. They are prolific and nutritious as well. Probably no other plant supplies the home gardener so much for so little effort. This tropical American, herbaceous, tree-like plant will grow and produce fruit the year around with a minimum of care. Green, unripe papayas are high in papain that helps digestion. The leaves are also high in papain and used in cooking. Ripe fruits are high in calcium, vitamin A and C. Your garden can supply a generous amount of these delicious fruits. By following modern methods, you may grow many other tropical fruits as well. But one of the best is papaya. Start out with healthy plants, proper attention to fertilizer and moisture needs, and keep insects under control. You’ll harvest some very good fruit that will repay you for your trouble. There are several varieties, from the big watermelon fruit to the small Solo types. Most folks prefer the bisexual or Solo strain of papaya. This type produces a high percentage of top quality fruit. Seeds from the large watermelon types produce male, female and bisexual trees. Most of the male trees must be eliminated as soon as they are detected. They are identified by means of their bloom stems. These are sometimes up to more than a foot in length and have many flowers. Female blooms are produced close to the stem but have no pollen bearing stamen. Bisexual flowers have both ovary and stamen, thus can self pollinate. Occasionally, garden shops and nurseries offer Solo papaya plants for sale, and the gardener who needs a few plants will do well so buy his plants rather than to attempt to grow them from seed. For larger numbers of plants, you may grow seed from selected fruit. Seed order forms are available from the University of Hawaii Cooperative Extension Service. The papaya is a relatively short-lived herbaceous plant, reaching a height of 15, or more feet in five years. A top quality plant should produce over 150 pounds in a two-year period. But commercial growers often harvest up to 300 pounds from a plant during a two-year period. After that, the plant becomes so tall it is difficult to pick fruit. Production drops rapidly. The papaya requires large amounts of fertilizer for best production. Spread the fertilizer out over an area roughly covered by the leaves. A papaya plant won’t thrive in soil that is very dry or poorly drained. Young plants must be kept well watered until they are established, then watered every four or five days during the dry season. Mulching will help to conserve moisture. In wetter areas of the island, irrigation will only be necessary during drought periods.