Kalo Production
Kalo is grown at Pilale Bay Farms for both food and planting stock. New māla areas are established as additional ground is prepared, allowing production to expand alongside ongoing land development.
Plantings are managed to support steady seasonal harvests while maintaining a continuous supply of ʻōha for future field expansion.
Expanding the Māla
Kalo production is being developed in stages as new areas are cleared, shaped, and improved. Soil preparation, organic matter application, and water management are used to create growing conditions that support healthy corm development.
This phased approach allows production to increase while maintaining strong plant establishment in each new area.
A huli kalo right after harvest
Propagation & Planting Material
Kalo production at Pilale Bay Farms is sustained through replanting material generated from each harvest. The huli, or upper portion of the plant containing the stem and leaf growth, is set aside and replanted as the primary start for the next crop cycle.
Many plants also produce ʻōha along the sides of the makua corm. These secondary shoots are separated and grown out to provide additional planting stock, allowing production areas to expand as new māla are prepared.
This cycle ensures that every harvest contributes directly to the next generation of planting material while increasing the number of plants over time.
Harvested makua with 'oha
Harvest
Kalo is harvested as plants reach maturity rather than on a fixed schedule. This allows the farm to maintain quality while providing a reliable supply for food use as production areas increase.
