Growing food in Hawaii is a wonderful thing for the home gardener. Not only are you able to pick food just in time to keep the best nutritional value, but it tastes so much better. In many parts of Hawaii, it can difficult to find locally grown produce. More importantly, it can be difficult to find produce that is affordable and healthy.
There are a few things to consider in growing plants in Hawaii.
It’s important to grow crops that will thrive in our climate. Hawaii has many micro climates and depending upon where you are cultivating your plants might need extra attention and care. The trick to growing vegetables in Hawaii is to select varieties that are adapted to the tropical climate.
Soil & Plants: Starting with great soil and healthy seedlings is very important to cultivate wonderful produce.
Sun: Making sure where you put your plant so that it does not get too much sun or too little depending on the variety.
Pests: Setting up the growing environment so that pests do not consume and harm your plants is very important. Planting next to plants that have natural chemicals that are noxious for pests can be very helpful. And sometimes, like Marigold, very beautiful.
Weeds: Weeds can choke out other plants. Weed block is easy to install and is a great tool to help your plants thrive.
H20: Following watering guidelines can make or break your plants.
Planting Environment: There are many ways to plant, from growing in containers to growing in vertical gardens. If you have limited space container gardens can be the very best choice.
Using trap crops or companion planting is a great organic way to draw beneficial insects and to keep the harmful bugs away from the plants you want to keep bug-free. We grow marigolds and dill for this purpose. Check out this terrific article from The Old Farmer’s Almanac.
Delicious with chips, this side dish has a very healthy serving of veggies and fruit. Can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days – add to morning egg dish o breakfast burrito.
This refreshing drink is perfect for poolside or on a hot day. Add a splash of rum to make it into a cocktail.
For our health and the health of our ‘Āina (land) and Wai (water).
