composting bin - long story

1- David noticed an orphan unused composting bin on campus.
2- By the process of elimination, we figured out who to ask.
3- We asked and they said, "OK, it's yours." (!)
4- It seems that it was purchased by a 'sustainability group' but never used. (ironic, I know. but whatever....)
4- Dana and Shawn went and got it.

signed and ready - first work party

first work party!!
Sunday 10/31
mission:
1. install irrigation system
2- plant 'sunhemp' (nitrogen replacing plant)

groundbreaking

We acted. After a morning of clearing rubbish, weeds, and grasses, the stage is set for the installation of a border. We refrained from digging too deeply not knowing what lies directly under the earth (i.e. pipe, electrical lines, etc.)

We decided on a raised bed system for 3 reasons:
1. preventing the soil from eroding and causing a muddy mess on the sidewalk
2. attractive
3. seeing as we don't want to dig too deeply, this allows us to add significant amounts of soil and amendments.

At Re-Use Hawai'i we discovered brick pavers measuring 1" x 6" x 12". They are perfect for a raised garden bed in Hawai'i because they are termite and water rot resistant. We dug a trench and submerged the bricks in about 6" of soil.

Then a trip to Kapolei to visit Hawaiian Earth Products to purchase their product "Menehune MAGIC" Organic Compost. By the truck load, it costs only $36 and this stuff is teaming with activity. The microorganisms and 'good bugs' in this compost is the perfect addition to any garden.

the desolate lonely earth

We observed. Because grasses and weeds are growing without human attention, it was safe to assume the soil is at least semi-fertile. Upon further investigation we could see numerous bugs and critters scurrying throughout the soil. Also a very good sign of fertility.

A FOOD GARDEN

Let's start with a reading by Michael Hardt "The Politics of the Commons" (download) as we start a food garden.

The spot is located at the ewa/makai corner of the Art Building on the campus of the University of Hawai'i at Manoa. Two alcove-like spaces - weedy, sometimes used as a cigarette butts repository and by cats for defecation. The pluses? Lots of suns, and hose bibs very near. Let's see what happens...