Are there any restrictions to what I can plant in my plot?
Yes. The planting rules are detailed in Section §19-12-12 (opens in PDF). Key restrictions include:

• • Trees and woody plants must be grown in pots with an impermeable barrier beneath (e.g., bricks) to prevent root intrusion. Some specific woody plants, like cassava and ti, may be planted in the ground if pre-approved by the Community Gardens Coordinator (CGC).
  • Bamboo, banana, and sugar cane are prohibited.
  • Plants requiring excessive water, such as wetland taro and lotus, are not allowed.
  • Controlled substances are strictly prohibited.
  • Plant height is limited to five feet, although exceptions for temporary annuals (e.g., sunflowers, corn) can be added by vote to the garden’s bylaws.
  • Use of rubber mulch, pesticides, herbicides, and salt is prohibited unless the product is pre-approved by the CGC.
  • All plant material must stay within the assigned plot boundaries and cannot extend into adjacent paths or plots.

Do these restrictions apply to common areas?
Yes. Additional rules specific to common areas are listed in Section §19-12-15 (opens in PDF). In particular:

• • No trees or woody plants are allowed in common areas, except existing city trees.
  • No invasive, poisonous, or hazardous plants (e.g., cacti) are allowed.
  • All plantings must be approved by a vote of the CGO membership and approved by the CGC.
  • Gardeners may not use common areas for personal gardening, expanding their plots, or storing items.

What’s the process for getting mulch for our garden?
In order to prevent the spread of the Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle (CRB), there is a specific process to get mulch for your garden. CRBs are a threat to our palm species and can spread with the movement of infested breeding material. Mulch included! A pile of mulch is the perfect place for CRB to breed, and so we ask that community garden officers organize mulch drop-off and distribution with garden members within two days. Remember, non-City vehicles cannot drive onto City property. 

For individuals purchasing small amounts of mulch for their plots, you do not have to organize with others, but you do have to acquire mulch from safe sources such as Hawaii Earth Products and Island Topsoil. Visit https://www.crbhawaii.org/ for more information on how to help prevent the spread of CRB.

The Division of Urban Forestry used to supply mulch to community gardens from trimming nearby City trees. Unfortunately, due to the risk of spreading CRB, this program has been suspended.

Are dogs allowed at the gardens?
For health and safety reasons, dogs and other animals are not allowed in any of the community gardens, except for service animals. “Service animal” means any animal that is individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of an individual with a disability, including a physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual, or other mental disability (§347-2.5 HRS).

What if I can’t tend to my garden?
If a gardener is sick or on vacation, they should notify the president of their garden in writing and/or email to avoid misunderstandings. In the case of extended illness, incapacitation, or personal hardship, a helper should be appointed and their name and contact information added temporarily to the plot permit application.

What do I do if I encounter a security issue?
If it is an emergency situation or you feel unsafe, please get to a safe place and immediately call 911.

If it is a non-emergency situation, please call the Community Garden Coordinator at (808) 768 7138. You could also submit a 311 report via the app or by calling 311. Please note that it is important to have verified information with your report. Photos are helpful, as well.

If you don’t see your question answered here, click HERE to access the Rules and Regulations. If you are still unsure, don’t hesitate to contact us for more information!