Feasibility of Potato Production in Hawaii

Abstract

Hawaii has a long history of unsuccessful potato production that is practically unknown to the agricultural community. Crop failure due to disease and insect attack, lack of available seed, improper crop and soil management, and overseas competition for the local market have reduced potato production in Hawaii to a backyard activity. However, Hawaii possesses extensive lands that are suitable for potato production. The report reviews the history, consumption, and production of potato in Hawaii and makes agronomic assessments of three soil categories: Ustic Humitropepts, Tropeptic Eutrustox, and Hydric Dystrandepts.