- 1). Take a soil sample to your local county extension office. A soil test, also available from many garden centers or landscape contractors, will evaluate the soil to determine nutrient content.
- 2). Amend the soil if necessary. Plants that are grown in the Hawaiian Islands have the benefit of rich, volcanic soil. The deep red color of the soil indicates a high iron content. If you are raising plants native to the islands, attempt to duplicate their natural growing requirements. If your soil is deficient in iron, plants will benefit from a liberal application of bone meal. Apply around the base of the plant, following package instructions.
- 3). Add organic compost to enrich the soil. The native plants of Hawaii sustain themselves on decomposing vegetation that enriches the soil. Attempt to replicate these conditions by adding a 2- to 3-inch layer of organic compost around the base of the plant. Work into the soil if feasible. In an outdoor planting area, also add a 1- to 2-inch layer of organic mulch on top of the compost to retain moisture and control weeds. The planting area can be top dressed with a 1- to 2-inch layer of pine bark or decorative pebbles.
- 4). Provide adequate moisture. The island of Kauai is an example of the diverse growing conditions that are found in the Hawaiian Islands. The leeward side of the island is receives daily rain showers and has one location that is the wettest place on earth. The windward side of the island is arid and there cactus and sedums flourish. Research the moisture preference of the native Hawaiian plants you seek to grow and water to mimic their moisture preferences.
- 5). Refer to the references displayed below for additional information on individual plants native to Hawaii, their history, habitat and cultivation requirements.
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