Forestter Blog

Hawaii, with its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, holds a profound concept at the core of its identity – Mālama ʻĀina. This ancient Hawaiian principle, often translated as “to care for the land,” embodies a deep-rooted respect for the environment and a harmonious relationship between humans and nature. Join us as we explore the historical origins, significance, practices, contemporary relevance, challenges, and the future trajectory of Mālama ʻĀina in Hawaiian culture. Ancient Hawaiian Practices Before the arrival of Western settlers, the indigenous people of Hawaii practiced sustainable land management techniques that were deeply rooted in their connection to the land. They implemented a system known as ahupua’a, which divided the land into pie-shaped sections that extended from the mountains to the sea. This system allowed for the sustainable use of natural resources, with each ahupua’a containing a variety of ecosystems that provided everything needed for Hawaiian communities to thrive. The Hawaiians practiced sophisticated irrigation methods, terraced farming, and aquaculture to ensure a balance between human needs and environmental sustainability. Influence of Indigenous Beliefs Mālama ʻĀina is not just a set of practices but a holistic worldview deeply ingrained in indigenous Hawaiian beliefs. The land, or ‘aina,’ is seen as a living entity, imbued with the mana (spiritual energy) of ancestors. This spiritual connection fosters a profound sense of responsibility and stewardship among Hawaiians, who believe that caring for the land is essential for maintaining harmony with the natural world and ensuring the well-being of future generations. Ceremonies, rituals, and chants dedicated to honoring the land reflect the spiritual significance of Mālama ʻĀina in Hawaiian culture. Meaning and Significance of Mālama ʻĀina Environmental Stewardship Mālama ʻĀina emphasizes the importance of environmental stewardship and sustainable resource management. The people of Hawaii recognize the interconnectedness of all living beings and understand that their well-being is intrinsically linked to the health of the land. Therefore, they strive to live in harmony with nature, practicing conservation and preservation techniques that minimize their impact on the environment while ensuring the continued abundance of natural resources. Connection to Spiritual and Cultural Values Beyond its practical implications, Mālama ʻĀina holds deep spiritual and cultural significance for  the people of Hawaii. It embodies the values of aloha (love), lokahi (unity), and kuleana (responsibility). Mālama ʻĀina is not just an obligation but a way of life that reflects the essence of Hawaiian spirituality and cultural identity. Mālama ʻĀina Practices and Traditions Sustainable Agriculture Traditional Hawaiian agriculture is characterized by its sustainability and ingenuity. Hawaiians practiced polyculture, planting a diverse range of crops that complemented each other and maximized yields. They built intricate irrigation systems (lo’i) to cultivate taro, a staple crop, and terraced fields (mauna) on the slopes of mountains. Fishponds (loko i’a) were constructed along the coastlines to cultivate fish and other marine resources sustainably. These traditional agricultural practices not only provided food security but also contributed to the preservation of ecosystems and biodiversity. Conservation Efforts In contemporary Hawaii, Mālama ʻĀina is reflected in various ways aimed at protecting and restoring natural habitats. People of Hawaii work together to address threats such as habitat loss, invasive species, and pollution. Reforestation projects, marine protected areas, and wildlife sanctuaries are established to safeguard endangered species and ecosystems. Volunteer programs engage local communities in hands-on conservation activities, fostering a sense of stewardship and environmental awareness. Respect for Natural Resources Central to Mālama ʻĀina is the principle of respecting and conserving natural resources for future generations. Hawaiians practice sustainable fishing techniques, such as using throw nets and fish traps, to minimize their impact on marine ecosystems. They also engage in traditional practices such as gathering (huki) and sharing (laulima), which promote the responsible use of resources and strengthen social bonds within communities. By honoring the ‘aina and its gifts, Hawaiians ensure the sustainability of their livelihoods and the resilience of ecosystems. Impact of Mālama ʻĀina Today Preservation of Hawaiian Ecosystems Mālama ʻĀina plays a vital role in the preservation of Hawaii’s unique ecosystems, which are home to a diverse array of endemic species found nowhere else on Earth. Conservation efforts protect critical habitats such as rainforests, coral reefs, and wetlands, preserving biodiversity and ecological balance. Mālama ʻĀina ensures the long-term viability of Hawaii’s natural heritage for future generations to enjoy. Cultural Revitalization Mālama ʻĀina contributes to the cultural revitalization of Hawaii by reconnecting communities with their ancestral lands and traditional practices. Through education programs, cultural workshops, and hands-on experiences, the people of Hawaii are honoring and preserving the land, its spiritual significance, creating community awareness, and expanding the collective of land stewards. Traditional knowledge passed down through generations is being revived and integrated into modern conservation efforts, bridging the gap between past and present and fostering a sense of pride among all the people of Hawaii. Community Engagement Mālama ʻĀina fosters community engagement and collaboration, bringing people together to address environmental challenges collectively. Volunteer initiatives, community cleanups, and educational outreach programs empower individuals to take action and make a positive impact in their local communities. By fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility for the land, Mālama ʻĀina strengthens social cohesion and resilience, creating a shared vision for a sustainable and thriving future. Challenges and Threats to Mālama ʻĀina Modernization and Development Rapid urbanization and economic development pose significant challenges to Mālama ʻĀina, as traditional practices and sacred sites are often overlooked or disregarded in favor of industrialization and commercial interests. Land development, infrastructure projects, and tourism-related activities can disrupt ecosystems, fragment habitats, and erode cultural landscapes, threatening the integrity of Mālama ʻĀina principles. Conclusion Mālama ʻĀina is not just a cultural practice but a guiding philosophy that underscores the importance of stewardship and harmony with the land. As Hawaii faces modern challenges, the principles of Mālama ʻĀina remain as relevant as ever, offering a pathway to sustainability and resilience. By embracing these values, the people of Hawaii can ensure the preservation of this sacred land and the vitality of the ecosystems for generations to come. Through collective action and

Nature’s Whisper Nature, with its intricate beauty, holds secrets beyond what meets the eye. In this exploration, we delve into a variety of research and publications which document the fascinating realm of how nature communicates, shedding light on the mycelial network and the social life of forests. These revelations not only provide insights into the interconnectedness of ecosystems but also challenge our perception of the natural world. The Mycelial Network: Nature’s Internet Beneath the surface of the soil lies a hidden marvel – the mycelial network. Often referred to as nature’s internet, this vast underground network comprises mycelium, the thread-like structures of fungi. Mycelium acts as a communication highway, enabling different plant species to exchange information and nutrients. It’s a symbiotic relationship that transcends individual plant boundaries, creating a web of interconnected life. Unveiling the Scientific Insights Scientific American, a reputable source in the realm of scientific knowledge, has delved into the intricate workings of the mycelial network. Their research underscores the significance of this underground communication system, highlighting how plants use it to warn each other of potential threats and share essential resources. The exchange of information through mycelium demonstrates a level of cooperation among plant life that challenges traditional views of competition in the natural world. Harnessing Mycelium’s Potential The potential applications of mycelium go beyond mere communication. Scientists are exploring ways to harness the power of mycelium for sustainable practices. A few ways in which scientists  plan to use the power of mycelium is through the development of eco-friendly materials and bioremediation, the use of either naturally occurring or deliberately introduced microorganisms or other forms of life to consume and break down environmental pollutants. As we delve deeper into understanding this natural internet, we unlock possibilities for environmentally conscious solutions inspired by nature. The Social Life of Forests In the heart of dense woodlands, a social life thrives. Smithsonian Magazine, in its exploration titled “Do Trees Talk to Each Other?,” unravels the social dynamics within forests. Contrary to the conventional perception of trees as solitary entities, they engage in a form of communication that resembles a social network. This network is also known as “The Wood Wide Web”. Decoding the Conversations Trees communicate through chemical signals and root networks. When one tree is under stress, neighboring trees respond by adjusting their chemical composition to strengthen their defenses. This communal defense mechanism reflects the interconnectedness and interdependence of trees in a forest, forming a collective effort for survival. The intricate language of trees involves not only warnings but also sharing nutrients through their root systems, fostering a collaborative environment. The Role of Forest Communities Beyond individual tree communication, the concept of forest communities emerges. Trees within a forest are not isolated entities but part of a larger community where mutual support is the key to resilience. Understanding and preserving these forest communities become essential for maintaining the health and biodiversity of ecosystems. The concept of Wood Wide Web challenges our perception of individual trees, portraying them as active participants in a community that collaborates for the well-being of the entire ecosystem. Fungal threads act as information highways, enabling swift communication between trees separated by considerable distances. This collaborative network enhances the resilience of forests, allowing them to adapt to changing environmental conditions. Lessons from the Wood Wide Web The Wood Wide Web offers valuable lessons for human societies – the power of collaboration and information sharing. As we witness the success of this natural internet, it prompts reflection on our own interconnectedness and the potential benefits of fostering collaborative relationships for the greater good. The Hidden Life of Trees: Insights from Peter Wohlleben For those of us who enjoy sitting down with a nice book, Peter Wohlleben’s “The Hidden Life of Trees,” takes us on a captivating journey into the world of trees and their communication. This literary exploration enhances our understanding of the intricate relationships trees share and the significance of their communication methods. Wohlleben’s narrative goes beyond the scientific, delving into the emotional and intricate connections between trees. Through vivid storytelling, he unravels the hidden lives of trees, showcasing their ability to communicate not just for survival but also for mutual support and community building. The book, in addition to publications mentioned above, again invites readers to perceive trees not merely as silent beings but as dynamic participants in the dance of nature. Visualizing A Forest Communicating For those of you who would like to visualize how forests communicate, National Geographic offers a great visual representation. In a short video titled, “How Trees Secretly Talk to Each Other,” they delve into the subtleties of forest communication, emphasizing the covert ways in which trees convey information crucial for their survival.   National Geographic’s exploration takes us on a visual journey, capturing the intricacies of tree communication through stunning photography and insightful narratives. The video not only informs but also inspires, highlighting the beauty of nature’s communication methods and the need for conservation efforts to protect these delicate ecosystems. Embracing Nature’s Symphony: A Conclusion In conclusion, the revelation of nature’s communication methods, from the mycelial network to the Wood Wide Web, underscores the interconnectedness of life in the natural world. As we unravel these mysteries, it becomes evident that nature operates as a symphony, with each element playing a crucial role in the harmony of ecosystems. Embracing and understanding these communication methods not only deepens our appreciation for nature’s complexity but also highlights the importance of preserving and respecting the delicate balance that sustains life on our planet. The lessons learned from the mycelial network, forest social life, and the Wood Wide Web beckon us to be stewards of the environment, fostering a future where humans and nature coexist in harmony. FAQ’s How are mushrooms and mycelium related? Mycelium is a part of the mushroom that is very similar to the root system of a plant. When mycelium reaches a certain stage of maturity or encounters environmental conditions such as humidity or nutrient availability, it undergoes a process

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 a gathering of several nusrseries from around the island at the Old Kona Airport pavillion from 8 am to 1 pm, Saturday February 10th. “It’s where you can talk directly to members  of our local nursery community” says event organizer Bob Harris of Orchid People.  Chitosi Tsumura from Keaau will focus on the many different varieities of Anthurium ideal for Valentines Day. Peter and Kay DeMello of Kona will be there with over fifty varieities of easy care air plants. Phoenicia and Bob Zeller of Ocean View will have hard to find orchids, cactus and succulents. Kari Hagerman of Waimea is bringing bedding plants, roses and Silver Dollar Eucalyptus. Sean Spellicy of Kurtistown will have palms, fruit trees, bamboo and even waterlilies. Of course, Orchid People of Waimea will have their spectacular Cymbidium varieties that can be grown from mauka to makai.  When is comes to fragrant flowering plants, they are a must to add to your choices. Have you ever noticed Hawaiian air smells better than most other places in the world? Visitors and residents returning from a trip often comment about the sweet heavy fragrance the moment they step off the plane. This is especially true now as Plumeria, Jasmine and other flowers begin their spring bloom. Coffee trees bloom this time of year adding fragrance along country roads along with Ylang Ylang (cananga oderata), Mulang (Michelia champaca), Lemon scented Magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora) and many other flowering trees. Hawaii has a special magic.  The scent of flowers perfumes the air and sets a tropical, romantic mood whether you live mauka or makai.  By adding more flowering plants to your area, you can combat unpleasant smells like car exhaust fumes or rubbish cans.  There are many good choices for your garden.  The scent of orange blossoms and, of course, grapefruit, lime, lemon, and tangerine blossoms all have delicious fragrance. During the longer days of summer, many species of ginger are in full bloom and in the evening white, yellow and rose flowered Angel Trumpets make for perfect garden romance. But, there are many other less known and more varied plants that can add to our gardens.  All the plants listed below have fragrant flowers.  Some of them such as plumeria, night blooming jasmine, fragrant dracaena, gardenia and mock orange are equipped with fragrance so potent that it can fill every inch of garden air space and drift into the house, too.  Others like the spider lily produce more subtle perfumes that usually won’t travel quite as far and are best appreciated at close range. There are dozens of species of ginger and let us not forget our native alahe’e and Hoawa available at some nurseries. There are many kinds of jasmine as well as several other plants called by that name including star jasmine and orange jasmine (mock orange) that are not jasmines at all.  There are several true jasmines that bloom with fragrant flowers.  Jasminum ilicifolium and Jasminum multifolorum are two shrubs used as foundation plantings.  They may also be grown as vines and will bloom more profusely. Jasminum sambac is the one we call pikake. Star jasmine (Trachelospermum jasminoides) is a vine.  Tie this plant to a post, fence, or some other support and it will climb. Pinch out the viny branch tips and it will cover the ground.  The clusters of star-shaped, white flowers contrast nicely with shiny dark green leaves. This vine is sometimes referred to as Maile Jasmine because the leaves resemble Maile. Mock orange (Murraya paniculata) or Orange Jasmine is  a member of the citrus family and is an attractive evergreen shrub or small tree with glossy green pinnately-compound leaves.  The white, very fragrant flowers are produced at intervals throughout the year, followed by clusters of red ovoid fruit.  It is a vigorous grower and may be used as a small tree, an informal high hedge or screen, or may be trimmed to a formal shape. The ever popular plumeria is found in many gardens, but a close relative is rare.  It is known as Tabernaemontana or Cinnamon Gardenia and was originally introduced by Paul Weissich in 1960 from Africa.  Flowers are produced all during the year and have a cinnamon fragrance.  The odor is delicate, but one or two flowers perfume the whole garden.  Others to consider are Ervatamia (Crepe Jasmine) Cerbera, Stemmadenia and Oleander.   When you have some spare timem stop by your local garden shops and nurseries to find these and many others for garden fragrance. Also keep in mind the Big Island Association of Nurserymen (and Women) are having their big spring show April 19th and 20th in Hilo. A great reference book to help you chose plants for your garden and their care is Sunset’s New Western Garden Book, available at some garden shops.

f you are looking for tough, resilient and useful plants to develop a new landscape or enhance an established one, consider the first introductions by the Polynesians. Then look forward to other introductions by each culture and ethnic group to make our islands their home. Of course endemic plants should be on your list, but some are extremely site specific. They often evolved to adapt to certain microclimates and are difficult to grow outside their comfort zone. An example would be the family of Lobelias of which we have about one hundred species. Other examples are the silversword plants that do well at elevations of 6,000 to 12,000 feet on Hawaii and Maui. They are not happy in low, warm or wet zones. Indigenous plants are those that are natives but found in many other tropical regions of the Pacific like beach naupaka. This plant is common along the coast, but may be grown inland as well. A close relative, the mountain naupaka evolved here but is not as easy to grow. A surprising group of plants to consider are those that were bred to be houseplants like philodendron, bromeliads, spathiphyllum and dracaena that will tolerate a variety of conditions. When the first Polynesian arrived in the Hawaiian Islands, there were no coconut palms here. There were no mountain apple, breadfruit, kalo and many other plants we think of as Hawaiian. If you think that kukui, bananas, and ti are natives and seem to grow easily, then it is time to rethink! These plants are alien, nonnative species brought to Hawaii by the Polynesians as they migrated across Southeast Asia and the Pacific Ocean. These are referred to as canoe plants. They were important to the survival, especially when Polynesians explored new islands and found those like Hawaii lacked the variety of fruits and medicinal plants they needed. For example, our state tree, the kukui, originated in what is now Indonesia, it is believed. Our state tree probably should be the loulu palm because it is endemic — that is, it found only in Hawaii. Of course there are exceptions to this. Four species of the genus are found in the South Pacific. Two species were only recently discovered. The Hawaiian loulu actually evolved here and are found growing naturally only in Hawaii. At one time, there may have been many dozens of species, but with the introduction of the Polynesian rat and pig, many must have perished. Later introduction of grazing animals did further damage. Pritchardia maideniana is rarely found in the wild and only occasionally in the landscape. The most common types are the two introduced species from the south Pacific. These are Pritchardia thurstonii and Pritchardia pacifica. Thurston’s loulu is noted for flower clusters up to six feet long. Pritchardia pacifica has very large leaves that were used in the old days as sunshades and umbrellas. These species are adapted to dry coastal locations. The Kona loulu prefers sunny dryer locations but has been grown at elevations as high as 3,000 feet. The other rare one is named after George Schattauer, Kona kamaaina. A few trees are found above Kaohe, Honomalino and Hookena. This species and Pritchardia beccariana from Kulani Prison Road near Volcano are being distributed on the Big Island. The latter is a spectacular rainforest palm with leaves almost six feet across. It prefers moist locations with wind protection. Many species have been tested at Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary in Kaloko Mauka, North Kona and at Amy Greenwell Ethnobotanical Garden in South Kona. When it comes to the canoe plants, many are tough and easy to grow. It’s important to the survival of many of these beautiful species to use them in our gardens. The hala tree, or pandanus, is a good example as is the noni, Morinda citrifolia. Both will tolerate dry, windy and salty conditions. The mountain apple, Syzygium malaccense also called ohia ai, is not often seen in modern gardens, but around old home sites in wetter parts of the islands, and it can be found growing wild. The cerise, pompom-like flowers appear on the branches and trunk. The fruit is about the size of a medium tomato, and is bell-shaped. It has a thin deep crimson skin with crisp white flesh and one seed. The seed is easy to grow and becomes a small tree you may then plant in your garden. Given many years the tree can become large but is easy to prune and kept small. There is also a variety that has white flowers and fruit, but is rare because it seldom produces a seed. It must be grafted on the common form. Remember, if folks begin to show more interest in native trees and Polynesian introductions, our nurseries can then afford to carry them as part of their regular stock. County and state buildings and roadways are ideal for them since most do not have aggressive root systems. With the Queen Kaahumanu Highway widening project, wouldn’t it be great to see the median strip landscaped with native loulu palms, kamani, naupaka and other native and canoe species? These canoe plants and many native plants should be used instead of grass that requires much more maintenance and water.

November is bringing about a chill in the air, but the Christmas holidays don’t seem real until we get our Thanksgiving meal digested. Poinsettias don’t seem to care since they are beginning to show color now. Folks on the mainland think of the poinsettia as a Christmas flower but for us it blooms now through March. So if you don’t have a showy supply in your garden, now is the time to start looking for the first potted plants to show up in the marketplace. Most growers try to time flowering right after Thanksgiving, but in Hawaii it is a gamble. Temperatures and rainfall affect quality and timing. Purchasing potted stock from a garden center or nursery is the easiest way to establish plantings of the holiday ornamental. However, some green thumb operators scavenge the neighborhood for hardwood cuttings when fellow gardeners prune their poinsettias following the flowering season. Getting plants this way can make you feel like a turkey if you choose cuttings from disease infected plants. If you get healthy plants, you can be sure to avoid “fowl” play. There are a number of poinsettias available. They come in traditional reds or you can enjoy color combinations indoors and in the garden if you mingle the red plantings with white and pink varieties. Since poinsettias give color from now through March, mixing plants in the garden will brighten things up for more than just the holiday season. Poinsettias will grow in a wide range of soils, including sand, rocky soil and clay. They will not tolerate soggy or poorly drained soils. In spite of the wide adaptability, the plants will present a better show of color if you take proper care of them. In massed beds, fertilizer application is important. An application of fertilizer in August should now be producing large colorful bracts. The plants will need repeat applications of plant food in early spring, in June and perhaps during mid-summer if there are heavy rains. For best results, prune poinsettias back in late winter or early spring after blooming is over. Cut them back to within 12 to 18 inches off the ground. You’ll find that a compact plant will furnish more color than a plant with few leggy stems. To promote a riot of colored bracts, prune the plants several times during the growing season. Nip the new growth back after it is 12 inches long, leaving four leaves on each shoot. Be sure to stop the pruning in early September, because the flowering buds are set in early October. Poinsettias show their color according to the day length and temperature. A plant near a lighted window or a street light often refuses to color up like a neighboring plant in a nearby darker corner. Dreary skies in September and early October will shorten the days causing plants to set buds and flower before the holiday season. You’ll find that temperature is a limiting factor for a good show of flowers. If the night temperatures are much above 70 degrees, bud forming will be retarded. Freak periods of hot weather during this critical time may not permit buds to form at all. The best flower development is when the night temperatures range from 60 to 68 degrees. For plants in your garden, one problem to watch for now are mites. Dryer conditions are ideal for this pest. Spraying with a miticide will take care of the little stinkers. If you want to avoid sprays, sprinkling the leaves daily with the garden hose is helpful. This will also minimize whitefly attacks. Avoid sprinkling in the heat of the day or late afternoon. If you want to experiment with this year’s potted plant, don’t toss it out when the last leaf drops. The plant will show brilliant color next Christmas season if you follow these tips. First, store the pot, plant and all, in an out of the way place. This treatment is intended to hibernate the plant during the cool days while the shriveling top feeds the sleeping roots. Only water the plant to keep it from getting bone dry. Avoid giving it fertilizer. Try storing the dormant plant in the shady corner of the carport. Toward the end of February, tenderly awake the plant by cutting off the dead top. You can grow the new plant in last season’s pot, but the poinsettia will be happier if you set it in the ground where it can flex its roots better than in the confines of a pot. Make sure you plant it where it will get lots of sun and a well drained soil. A close relative of the poinsettia is the white-flowered Euphorbia leucocephala, or snow on the mountain. The large bush may be seen in many upland gardens. They grow easily from cuttings as do poinsettia. Since they are seldom for sale at garden shops and nurseries, you may have to cockroach a start from a friendly gardener. Norman Bezona is professor emeritus, University of Hawaii College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources.