Mahi Pono plans major expansion of Maui-grown avocado production

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) – Mahi Pono is planning a major expansion of avocado production on Maui following successful initial plantings.

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The company said it plans to grow avocados on about 1,000 acres, with annual production expected to exceed 10 million pounds once the orchards reach full maturity.

The expanded orchards will include Lamb Hass, Sharwil, GEM and Greengold varieties.

Most of the planting is planned for agricultural fields below Pukalani at elevations of about 700 to 800 feet, where Mahi Pono said early plantings have shown strong potential.

“Our initial plantings have given us confidence that we can grow quality avocados on Maui at a commercial scale,” said Justin Teixeira, vice president of farm operations at Mahi Pono.

The company expects the first commercial harvest from the expanded planting within five years.

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Kula-based Maui Native Nursery will provide locally grown trees and support development of the orchards.

Mahi Pono said the project is part of its broader effort to bring former sugarcane lands in Central Maui into diversified agricultural production.

The company has planted more than 3 million trees and has also expanded production of mandarins, sweet onions and watermelons while continuing its ranching operations.

Mahi Pono said the avocado expansion is aimed at increasing the supply of locally grown food and strengthening Hawaii’s long-term food security.

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