This year, Surfrider Oʻahu’s Ocean Friendly Garden in Kaka’ako transformed into a lively hub for Honolulu green thumbs with two specialized plant exchanges. Participants were invited to share cuttings and seeds of two popular tropicals, plumeria and ti (Cordyline fruticosa). To protect the garden’s ecosystem, potted plants in soil were not allowed to prevent the spread of invasive pests like the coconut rhinoceros beetle and Little Fire Ants.
Known as melia in Hawaiian, plumeria was first introduced to Hawaii in the 1860s and is associated with the Hawaiian Islands for generations of travelers. Today, many home growers have a tree in their yard so they can enjoy the fragrance and beauty of the flowers, which they also use to create lei. In late May, garden enthusiasts gathered at the OFG to trade cuttings, swap tips, and learn the art of keeping their plumeria healthy. Local experts led hands-on propagation workshops, guiding attendees through the step-by-step process of taking a simple cutting and nurturing it into a thriving tree.
In July, we hosted an exchange of one of Hawaiʻi’s most culturally significant plants, called kī in Hawaiian. Attendees explored a mini-event showcasing a variety of premium ti specimens — ranging from deep, dramatic purples to vibrant neon pinks. It was a wonderful opportunity for local collectors and beginners alike to take home unique cultivars while learning how ti plants help hold soil and prevent runoff near our coasts.
Events like these remind us that caring for the ocean starts right in our own backyards. A huge mahalo to everyone who joined, swapped, and learned this season!
In addition to fun events like these, the Oʻahu chapter hosts monthly garden stewardship days where volunteers can help tend to the garden and learn hands-on about landscaping practices that protect clean water at the coast.
Not on island? Learn more about Ocean Friendly Gardens and how you can take action at home or in your community.