Coca, opium, marijuana and hundreds of other plants used to alter our perceived reality are nothing new to earlier cultures and civilizations. We often think of mood altering drugs with trepidation but they have been part of the human condition for thousands of years. Marijuana, opium poppies and coca leaf have been used as were certain mushrooms and even the sap of the angel trumpet tree. As in the case of the angel trumpet, it can be also very poisonous so only the shamans of South and Central America might be trusted with its use. Many of the substances derived from these plants are now illegal in some countries due to the possibility of dangerous misuse. In the case of angel trumpet sap, it can easily kill you if ingested. Others are so much a part of our culture that we hardly give them second thought. These include coffee, tea and chocolate.

Looking for a way to save on food bills? Then plant vegetables. For many backyard vegetable gardeners on the mainland, spring means the beginning of their gardening efforts. However, this is Hawaii so we can plant our vegetables anytime depending upon the microclimate. There are many vegetable gardening activities for the entire year.

When weather conditions are dry, it is a good time to explore ways to conserve water. Organic material is essential to good soil. Well-decomposed organic matter helps increase water and nutrient holding capacity of the soil. Undecomposed material like leaves and clippings used as surface mulch can help conserve moisture and keep weeds under control. Nematodes, those little microscopic worms that feed on your roots, will do less damage in a high organic soil. Organic matter may also increase the minor element and microbiological activity of your soil.

Summer is a great time to enjoy Hawaii’s flowering trees like the royal poinciana, tabebuia species, cassia shower trees, narra and many more. Speaking of narra, this beautiful yellow flowering tree from tropical Asia is rare but should be planted more. There is a beautiful specimen at Hale Anuhea in South Kona and another in the Lanihau shopping center by the old Bank of Hawaii site. The royal poinciana, Delonix regia, usually has flowers of crimson red to burnt orange. A rare form with yellow flowers is also available at some nurseries.

Foundation plantings are like spandex garments. They smooth out bumpy features and add a dressy look. When properly used, a foundation planting serves definite purposes. It connects the structure with the grounds and adjacent ornamentals so that the building and grounds appear to have grown together into an eye appealing design. Shrubs and vines also tend to soften and blend architectural lines. Such plants give the home a finished look.

Urbanization of Hawaii is impacting Kona and Hilo, but Puna, Kohala and other population areas are showing signs of construction and a trend toward removing trees.

Even though we talk a good story about being independent by growing our food and buying locally grown fruits and vegetables, it is not an easy thing to do. One exception is by growing and eating local bananas.

May Day in Hawaii is Lei Day as well. We celebrate Lei Day on May 1, but continue with leis throughout the year. Now there is also a noticeable spring fever effect when it comes to local gardeners, because many flowers start heavy blooming at this time.

“April showers bring May flowers” is an old adage and it holds true in many parts of Hawaii as well. With longer days, most folks are getting chronic Hawaiian spring fever. This means being close to nature with plants.

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.

Spring in Kona’s unique tropical cloud forests and East Hawaii’s rainforests is heralded by abundant new growth of ferns, especially our endemic cibotium treeferns. If you want to get a sense of what life was like during the time of the dinosaurs, visit the Kona Cloud Forest above Kailua. The area abounds with ferns that once were dominant millions of years ago.

We haven’t had many opportunities to travel for a pandemic year now, never the less, you can virtually travel by enjoying tropical fruits from all over the world in your garden.

The old saying that March comes like a lion and leaves like a lamb usually holds true but this year only time will tell. Spring flowering trees are on schedule like the cherry blossoms of Waimea. The annual Waimea Cherry Blossom Heritage Festival is not be happening this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic but the trees are still creating a great show. Check them out soon before they disappear for another year. As they begin to fade, blue jacaranda, silver oak and ohia will begin to brighten the landscape. Coffee trees in Kona and other parts of our island are in bloom as well. Later in the spring royal poinciana and rainbow shower trees will brighten our streets and gardens. The African tulip trees will also be making a spectacular display of red, orange and the rare yellow form as the weather warms.