Plums
Plums, like peaches and apricots, require chill hours that are hard to come by in most of Hawaiʻi. A few orchardists in cooler regions have tested low-chill selections, but volumes remain minor.
Suitable microclimates in upper elevations occasionally yield small plum harvests, often from cultivars specifically bred for subtropical conditions. Growers must manage fungal issues and monitor soil fertility to maintain orchard health. When ripe, these plums sell quickly, often through direct markets where their novelty garners premium pricing. Long-term expansion faces the same constraints as other stone fruits—uncertain chill accumulation and relatively small consumer familiarity with local plums. Hence, plums remain an interesting but limited horticultural curiosity.