Asparagus
Asparagus spears can be grown in higher-elevation zones of Hawaiʻi Island, where cooler nights help the plants develop. Production is generally small-scale, with sales often limited to specialty stores and farm stands.
Asparagus crowns establish more easily in well-drained soils and mild temperatures, which some upland areas on Hawaiʻi Island can provide. However, growers must remain vigilant about weeds and fluctuating rainfall, which can impede consistent spear emergence. Despite these hurdles, fresh asparagus tends to fetch higher prices and garners attention from local chefs who value farm-fresh produce. Market expansion is modest, tied largely to the ability of smaller farms to maintain reliable output and manage labor-intensive harvesting schedules.