Driving along the road high up on the slopes of Mauna Kea, Mark Hansen suddenly stops the truck, exclaiming, 'Look at that sandalwood tree!! The Sierra Club volunteers planted this four years ago. It's so healthy! How did I miss it until now?" The gorgeous sandalwood, or ‘iliahi, hiding inside a … [Read more...] about Nursery Spotlight-Sandalwood Nut Company
5 reasons to Grow Native
Here are the top 5 reasons you should grow native plants. One easy way to help native species thrive and survive is by giving them a home in your gardens and landscaping. Nurturing native plants provides each of us the chance to participate in healing the land while offering habitat to native fauna … [Read more...] about 5 reasons to Grow Native
Naupaka kahakai, The right plant for the right place
Hawaii Long ago, the buoyant seeds of Scaevola taccada (naupaka kahakai) buoyant seeds floated across the sea: cruising on currents, riding on waves, and finally landing upon distant shores to grow. Modern day studies have shown that naupaka kahakai seeds are most viable after spending an average … [Read more...] about Naupaka kahakai, The right plant for the right place
Invasive Holly in Hakalau, Hawaii
Many consider holly to be a Christmastime favorite. However, the tree associated with the holiday season’s cheer is nothing but bad tidings for native ecosystems. In Hawai'i, holly is invasive. The Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge, one of the most pristine and healthy native ecosystems in the … [Read more...] about Invasive Holly in Hakalau, Hawaii
10 Christmas tree substitutes for Hawai’i
Holiday traditions vary by family, culture, and geographic location. One thing remains constant: traditions are learned and passed on through generations. Some traditions stay the same, some are forgotten, and some are tweaked to suit changing needs or values. As an island state, we approach many … [Read more...] about 10 Christmas tree substitutes for Hawai’i
A new weed in potted plants
A menace for Hawai'i: A newly established weed promises to add even more burden to gardeners and plant lovers. Hairy crabweed (Fatoua villosa) was recently found invading a Hilo garden. Just a few weeks after planting a locally purchased Samoan gardenia, an unsuspecting gardener found hairy … [Read more...] about A new weed in potted plants