When we made the leap from desk jobs to full-time farming years ago, we got downright schooled.
Like that time we cleared an entire acre of invasive grasses in one swoop, only to have the rainy season undo our hard work in a snap. Lesson learned: Start small and tackle things one step at a time.
There were plenty of mistakes, doubt, and tough lessons along the way—but with time we grew into smarter and more capable growers.
Here’s the thing: while hands-on experience is essential, we also recognized the need for deeper understanding of the history, culture, and regenerative practices that make Hawaiian-style farming unique.
That’s where these 5 books come in.
Whether you’re just starting out or have been doing ʻāina work for years, these books will give you the cultural context to navigate your journey.
1. Native Planters in Old Hawaii: Their Methods and Environment by Emory S. and Ruth M. Handy
“Native Hawaiian agriculture was not a system of exploitation of nature, but rather one of living in partnership with nature.”
If you want to understand how traditional practices like loko iʻa (fishponds), lo‘i (taro patches), and dryland farming methods were designed to nurture both people and the environment, this book is essential reading.
Anthropologists Handy and Handy teamed with beloved Hawaiian scholar Mary Kawena Pukui to collect firsthand accounts from planters themselves.
The result is a revealing window into planting culture, mythology, technology, tools and techniques of kānaka maoli.
LESSON LEARNED: The core principle of the Hawaiian way of farming was sustainability. Their systems were built to avoid over-exploitation and were based on deep ecological knowledge—qualities that modern farming could learn from today.
2. Kahuna Lāʻau Lapaʻau: The Practice of Hawaiian Herbal Medicine by June Gutmanis
"The practice of lāʻau lapaʻau is a direct link to the past, where the land and the plants were revered as living entities that sustained and healed. Through these plants, we honor the wisdom of our ancestors and the ʻāina that continues to nurture us."
This book takes you into the heart of Hawaiian herbal medicine, where plants are much more than just greenery—they’re powerful allies in healing.
It brings you face-to-face with the time-tested practices of Hawaiian healers, showing how they used native plants to restore health and balance.
Whether you’re into natural wellness or just curious about the island’s rich traditions, this one’s packed with knowledge that’s still relevant today.
LESSON LEARNED: This book makes you realize that Hawaiian herbal medicine isn’t just about using plants—it’s about cultivating a deep respect for nature’s ability to heal. It’s a profound reminder of how connected we are to the land and the power of traditional knowledge in restoring balance and health.
If you can, grow your own!
If not, shop our selection of native healing teas . . .
3. ʻŌlelo Noʻeau: Hawaiian Proverbs & Poetical Sayings by Mary Kawena Pukui
"ʻAʻohe pau ka ʻike i ka hālau hoʻokahi."
"All knowledge is not taught in the same school."
This book isn’t about growing techniques; it’s about learning to see the world through the eyes of our ancestors.
Rather than providing step-by-step instructions, this collection of Hawaiian proverbs and sayings gets you into the right perspective—the spiritual and philosophical foundation of traditional Hawaiian agriculture.
After all, farming wasn’t just about the physical act of planting and harvesting; it was about respect, balance, and wisdom passed down through generations. This book will help you tap into that mindset.
LESSON LEARNED: This book shows that the process of farming is deeply intertwined with the way you think about and relate to ʻāina. It’s a reminder that every experience with the soil is an opportunity to learn and grow—not just as a farmer, but as a person living in relationship with ʻāina.
4. Plants in Hawaiian Culture by Beatrice Krauss
"Plants are not only our sustenance; they are our teachers. In every part of the plant, there’s a lesson about living in harmony with the earth, understanding the cycles of life, and honoring the land as we care for it."
If you’re farming in Hawaiʻi—or just interested in how the land works—it’s crucial to understand the sacred bond between people and plants.
Plants in Hawaiian Culture goes way beyond the basics of growing crops. It dives into the deep connection between plants and Hawaiian life, showing how they were not only food but also teachers, healers, and central to cultural rituals.
This book reminds you that farming in Hawaiʻi is more than just planting and harvesting—it’s about honoring traditions and ʻāina herself.
LESSON LEARNED: This book flips the script on what it means to farm. It’s not just about getting your hands dirty—it’s about deepening your relationship with the land and understanding its sacred role in Hawaiian culture.
5. Sam Choy’s ʻUlu Cookbook: Hawaiʻi’s Breadfruit Recipes
"ʻUlu is more than just food—it is a bridge between past and future, a symbol of how we can grow food in ways that nourish both our bodies and our communities."
ʻUlu is one of Hawaiʻi’s oldest and most sustainable crops, yet it often gets overlooked in modern kitchens.
Legendary chef Sam Choy grew up eating ‘ulu and brings this incredible, versatile food back into the spotlight.
The book is packed with delicious recipes and pro tips on how to work with this often misunderstood food source.
LESSON LEARNED: Through the concept of ma ka hana ka ʻike—“in doing, there is learning”—this book invites you to get your hands in the dirt and truly engage with the food you’re growing.
Okay, real talk: The wisdom in these pages is valuable, but it won’t do you any good sitting on the shelf.
Real learning happens when you put it into action—whether that’s planting māmaki, using Hawaiian herbs for healing, or reconnecting with ʻāina in a deeper way.
Farming isn’t just about what you grow; it’s about how you grow. So take these books, soak in the knowledge, then get your hands dirty.
That’s where the real magic happens.
Ready to dive deeper into the world of Hawaiian farming and sustainability?
Snag our FREE Aloha ʻĀina Guide for more tips, resources, and stories on how you can live your values.