North Shore NewsCommunity Gardener Profile
Kuilima Farms, mauka of Turtle Bay, includes the Laulima Gardens, which are 34 community garden plots dedicated to organizations and community members of the North Shore. Michael Tejada and his wife Marie started gardening at Laulima Gardens in April. The Tejadas were looking for a way to become more self-sustaining – to put food on the table they grew themselves and to share with others – and for an activity they could do with their five children, ages two to 17. As a diver and fisherman, Michael Tejada knows the ocean well and after hearing about the gardens, thought this would be a great opportunity to learn more about the land with his family. “It was easy to apply for a plot, and we have time now to learn about gardening,” said Tejada. “It’s something we can all do together and my kids can see the outcome. We got the land ready and now we go every day to water and watch the process. It’s secure, there are tools to share and free mulch, and the employees at Pono Pacific are so helpful. I love the mission of Kuilima Farms and think it’s an amazing opportunity.” So far, the Tejadas have planted taro and sweet potato on their plot, and plan to add plant green onion, tomato, lettuce, and zucchini in the coming months.