Discovering Tasty, Local Plant Options for Hawaii's Kitchens
Get ready to groove to the rhythm of Hawaii's edible melody at the upcoming "Variety Showcase" in Kona! This tantalizing celebration, held in beautiful collaboration with the North American Plant Breeders Association, is taking place at the Outrigger Kona Resort &Spa on May 21st, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM.
This event is a must-attend for anyone passionate about local food security, gardening, and gastronomy. Over twenty captivating crops, thriving in the sought-after tropical paradise of Hawaii, will be showcased. With over two dozen enticing booths lining the Bayview Grounds, access to delightful tasting samples and fascinating information about these plants, along with the chance to meet their dedicated breeders and growers, is at your fingertips!
The North American Plant Breeders Association annual meeting is a six-day extravaganza, unfolding at the stunning Outrigger Kona Resort &Spa, beginning May 18th. You'll have the opportunity to attend pre-conference workshops, engaging workshops, and academic presentations revolving around a wide array of agricultural topics. Whether you're a devoted member of the association, professional plant breeder, or a curious bystander, there's something for everyone at this diverse event[1].
The main attraction, the "Variety Showcase," is open to the public and will feature an impressive lineup of local agricultural organizations, such as the Hawaii Tropical Fruit Growers, Hawaii Master Food Preservers, UH breeders, and the 'Ulu Cooperative. Familiar favorites like bananas, mangoes, and avocados will grace the spotlight, but prepare to be captivated by lesser-known plants like sugarcane, sweet potatoes, cassava, carrots, roselle, and perhaps even some exotic finds like maprang and achachiru[4].
One of the many high-profile personalities gracing the showcase is Ken Love, who'll be sharing the stage with expert plant breeders, farmers, chefs, and eager attendees. Discover what secrets Ken has in store for Hawaii fruit enthusiasts with his wealth of knowledge on the maprang from Southeast Asia and the achachiru from the Amazon[2].
Mark your calendars, because this event promises to ignite a sense of community among plant breeders, seed growers, farmers, chefs, retailers, and consumers striving to enrich our local food system[4]. With intriguing insights, engaging conversations, chef-crafted dishes, and the chance to explore the latest in local crop varieties––this promises to be the Garden party of the decade!
Tickets for the showcase are available for the public at $40, while farmers can snag a reduced rate of $25 by contacting [email protected]. Be a part of the future of local agriculture and delve into a day of enlightenment, flavor, and community. Secure your spot today at https://tinyurl.com/5a7e9zfk.
Oh, and since you're here –– why not check out what other exciting agro-endeavors are happening in the Big Island? From pre-ordering your very own resistant coffee trees[3] and participating in upcoming workshops like the Hilo Chocolate Festival, or visiting local farmers markets, there's plenty to explore!
Get involved, get inspired, and discover the future of Hawaii's food scene at the Variety Showcase on May 21st, 2025! Hope to see you there!
*As a helpful side note, GoFarm Hawaii has confirmed that Jay Bost will be present at the showcase and will share his expertise on the latest and most delectable sweet corn varieties[1].*
[1] "North American Plant Breeders Association Annual Meeting Schedule and Registration." napbannualmeeting.org
[2] Ken Love, Personal Communication (March 18, 2023)
[3] "Pre-order Leaf Resistant Coffee Trees." UH CTAHR office, Kainaliu
[4] "New Edible Plants for Hawaii’s Future: A Green Revolution in Kona." Big Island Now, March 18, 2023.
- The upcoming "Variety Showcase" in Kona on May 21st, 2025, invites the community to learn about various crops and local food security during its event that spans from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM.
- Education and self-development enthusiasts will find the North American Plant Breeders Association annual meeting, held at the Outrigger Kona Resort & Spa from May 18th, an ideal opportunity to attend pre-conference workshops on various agricultural topics.
- Home and garden lovers can discover over twenty captivating crops showcased at the "Variety Showcase," such as sugarcane, sweet potatoes, and perhaps even exotic finds like maprang and achachiru.
- Food-and-drink aficionados can partake in chef-crafted dishes along with delightful tasting samples and engaging information about these plants during the "Variety Showcase."
- Expert plant breeders, farmers, chefs, and the public will have a chance to connect and share knowledge at the "Variety Showcase," with special guest Ken Love offering insights on the maprang from Southeast Asia and the achachiru from the Amazon.
- Tickets for the "Variety Showcase" can be purchased online for $40, or farmers can contact [email protected] for a reduced rate of $25.
