The other day I noticed that one of the popoulu plantains I planted mysteriously fell over. So today I planted another healthier one to replace it. Upon further investigation the dead one’s corm was filled with weevil damage. I think the plantain went through too much heat stress or something and didn’t put out enough roots.
The rest of the plantains are growing nicely and are thriving. Most of them are starting to push out their first keiki at their base. We’ve been finally getting some consistent rain and it’s a huge relief because it’s been so hot. Many of the young cacao trees I planted earlier this year have stems that are twice as thick now. The older cacao trees are loaded with flowers too.
Originally posted on 2021-07-20, part of the daily planting journal behind Ha’a Chocolate’s food forest on Hawai’i Island.