When deciding what plants to grow in your garden or yard, ensure environmental sustainability by choosing those that thrive in your area’s climate and soil conditions. As residents of this special place, it is our kuleana to protect and improve the environment around us in any way we can. Not only are these fruit trees good for the land, but the rewards are extra sweet! Here are a few reasons we love to grow tropical fruits:

  1. They fit in well with the environment.
    Tropical fruits grow in places with climates and soil similar to those in our region. These plants can survive in Hawaii’s environment with minimal attention. This means you can use less water, which allows you to conserve our natural resources while saving money! These plants require minimal maintenance for maximum enjoyment!
  2. They reduce storm water runoff.
    Like most plants, fruit trees, shrubs and vines help to prevent storm water runoff. Soil absorbs water that is then taken in by the plant. When the rain stops, the plant stores this water until it is ready to gradually release it back into the soil. Additionally, fruit trees create natural canopies that help to reduce erosion from heavy rain and act as natural water filters for water pollutants.
  3. Your efforts will be rewarded.
    By planting fruit trees, you not only help the environment by saving water and reducing runoff and water pollution, but you’ll also enjoy some delicious fruit in the future! There are so many ways to use tropical fruit—whether it’s for a lilikoi lemonade, banana bread or even a mango ice cream—the possibilities are endless! If your plant produces more than you can use, consider freezing the extra or sharing some with your neighbors, family members,and friends.

Here are some tropical fruits that are known to thrive in Hawaii:

  • Banana
  • Mango
  • Pomelo
  • Tangerine
  • Passionfruit
  • Avocado
  • Lychee
  • Starfruit
  • Papaya