KAHULUI – Maui Nui Botanical Gardens will host a kalo (taro) workshop Sept. 4 to 6 led by Hawaiian cultural practitioner and mahi’ai (farmer) Jerry Konanui as part of its new education program, “Ulu Ka Hoi” (to grow interest).
This three-day event will educate local farmers and practitioners on the varieties of kalo available, techniques to identify these varieties, proper cultivation methods and cultural applications. Participants also will have the opportunity to learn innovative wood- and stone-sculpting methods using modern equipment.
Space is limited and daily fees apply. Call 249-2798 to reserve a place.
The schedule is:
* Sept. 4, 9 a.m. to noon, kalo identification and cultivation. There’s a $25 fee.
* Sept. 5, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., pohaku ku’i ‘ai (poi pounding and stone making). There’s a fee of $40.
* Sept. 6, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., papa ku’i ‘ai (poi pounding and board making). There’s a fee of $40.
For the poi-pounding, stone-making and board-making sessions, participants are required to provide their own safety equipment (eye and ear protection) and to wear appropriate clothing and footwear.
Go online to www.mnbg. org for a full list of events at the gardens at 150 Kanaloa Ave.
