Honua Ho’onani is a small family operated nursery located in Pu’uhaoa, Hana.  

Owned and operated by Yuko Shinoda Gaffney, Honua Ho’onani specializes in Native Hawaiian plants and organic vegetable starts grown by Yuko, her husband Peter, and two sons Kanoa and Makana. 

From a young age, Yuko began gardening and cooking with her grandmother in Japan. Upon transitioning to Maui, she continued her training in sustainable agriculture as an organic farmer in both Huelo and Kipahulu. Most recently, Yuko joined the Kahanu Gardens staff as nursery manager. Unfortunately, as a result of the pandemic, Yuko found herself unemployed.  “Joining the farmers market was the perfect opportunity to start my own business and share knowledge of Hawaiian Native plants and Japanese food culture,” said Yuko. 

In 2011, Yuko studied alongside her friend, Nana, to learn the art of making Japanese Miso. Fermented, using traditional Japanese seasoning, her miso is rich in vitamins, minerals, folic acid and beneficial probiotic cultures. Pick-up a jar at the Honua Ho’onani market booth this week., and try this amazing family recipe for Honey Miso Salad Dressing. Mahalo Yuko and the Gaffney ‘Ohana!