Water Gardening In Hawai'i

Here's my shot of Steve Stephenson's water garden in Volcano, Hawai'i, which I mention in "Oasis," my story in the current issue of Hana Hou! magazine.

If you’re traveling via Hawaiian Airlines this month, you can simply reach into the chair pocket in front of you for the February/March issue and meander through some enchanting Hawai'i water gardens at the same time you're cruising the stratosphere.

You can read the story online here, but be sure not to miss the printed version, which has additional stunning images by photographer Jack Wolford.

Some tips from the pond enthusiasts I visited:

• If you are newbie, you can begin with a small pond, and then add on.
• Join a local water garden club. It’s a great way to meet other gardeners and trade plants and fish. If you don’t have a club in your area, start one.
• Aquatic plants grow fast, and some are high maintenance. You’ll have to divide and fertilize water lilies and lotus once a month to keep them healthy and encourage blooming.
• Water lilies are either day bloomers or night bloomers. If you work all day, include some night bloomers, which open from about 7 pm to 10 am.
• Koi and catfish like nibbling on the roots of plants, so use netting or barriers to prevent damage.
• Biofiltration saves energy and reduces monthly operating costs.

I'll have to admit I had a fine time on this assignment, visiting beautiful gardens, talking story with gardeners and enjoying their warm hospitality. (I know, tough life.) Here's a few more of the many water gardens I visited.

In Puna, the pond under the 'ohi'a trees of Big Island Water Garden Club president Bob Peck and his wife, Mitsue...

In Volcano, the peaceful sanctuary of Naomi Rubine and George Winiarski...

...and something the public can enjoy, Victoria lilies at the entrance of Panaewa Zoo. These weren't in bloom when I took this photo, but I think the gigantic lilypads are impressive nonetheless.

Feeling inspired? Good luck. You might make a few mistakes. Just breathe deeply.