Ocean View florist works to recover greenhouses after Hurricane Lala

News admin August 30, 2026 0 Comments

Ocean View florist works to recover greenhouses after Hurricane Lala

OCEAN VIEW (HawaiiNewsNow) – A Hawaii Island florist is finding ways to recover two weeks after Hurricane Lala brought severe rains and winds.

Bob Zeller, 78, had his Ocean View property damaged by multiple fallen Ohia trees, including one that fell on his greenhouses and agricultural sheds.

He said he’s seen a number of Kona low storms throughout his time in Hawaii, but “this was more than any of those.”

Zeller, an organizer of the Kona Orchid Show, isn’t worried about the loss of his succulents and orchids, but is concerned about the work he and his wife have in the near future.

“It’s going to take quite a bit to get it back in operation, including removing the huge trees that have smashed across it,” he said. “So it might be six months or more before I get a fence back again, which is kind of frustrating.”

An easy way to support those like Zeller is coming up in two weeks in Kona.

The Kona Orchid Society’s Fall Show and Sale will be at Makaeo Pavilion at Kona Old Airport State Recreational Area.

The show and sale is 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sept. 12.

The event will also feature a talk story with mom-and-pop growers.

Various plants along with crafted merchandise like jewelry—including resin orchid flowers and black pearls, functional stoneware, handmade pottery, plus handbags and accessories will also be on sale.

Early bird admission is $20 from 8-9 a.m. and offers 100 attendees exclusive first access to the sale and plants, organizers said.

Learn more about the Kona Orchid Society here. Tickets are available online here.