UH Botanical Garden Work Day, Lunch, and Workshop (Saturday, April 18, 2026)

Sat, 18 Apr 2026 19:00:00 GMT

Celebrate our partnership with the UH Botanical Garden by joining our official workday at the garden - you will be rewarded with lunch and a workshop led by J.R. Miles.

The day will begin at 9:00 AM with various work projects, followed by a lunch provided by HIPS, and will conclude with an educational workshop. This event is a great opportunity to help with garden maintenance while enjoying a day of learning and community.

Projects and Planting

The morning will include several work team projects to keep the collection thriving. One of these projects involves planting three specific palms selected by Don Hemmes: Chamaedorea oblongata, Chamaedorea glaucifolia, and Lanonia centralis. Don has already identified the locations for these new additions. Other tasks for the morning include weeding, pruning, hanging orchids, and hauling green waste to the University compost area. We will also be applying 100 pounds of 12-6-12 slow-release fertilizer with minors throughout the garden.

Safety and Preparation

For everyone's safety, please note that there will be no power tools, weed wacking, or mowing during the event. To participate, you must bring and wear the proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):

Footwear: Closed-toe shoes are required.

Clothing: Long pants are best to protect against spiny fronds.

Protection: Bring a hat, gloves, and eye protection

Health: Bring water, sunscreen, and mosquito repellent.

Lunch

After the morning work session, we will gather at 12:00 PM for a Subway sandwich lunch provided by HIPS. Participants will fill out their sandwich orders upon arrival at the registration table. Free palm raffle giveaway too.

Workshop

Following lunch, former HIPS President J.R. Miles will lead a workshop starting at 12:45 PM and ending at 2 PM.

Reading the Fronds: Key Characteristics for Palm Identification In this workshop, J.R. Miles will highlight some common genera, which are well represented in the botanical garden, to help attendees recognize the structural patterns used to distinguish one group from another.

Logistics

Please park behind the cafeteria and proceed to the breezeway near the restrooms to sign in at the registration table. Upon arrival, all participants must complete an Assumption of Risk and Release form. We look forward to seeing everyone there for a productive day in the garden.

Hawaii Island Palm Society upcoming events

UH Botanical Garden Work Day, Lunch, and Workshop (Saturday, April 18, 2026)