I have a sister in Hawaii who grew up with the same fig tree I did, and misses the fruit as much as I do. I made some cuttings from that tree this year and would like to send her a small tree. I've found some forms regarding plant importation (http://hdoa.hawaii.gov/forms/), but I'm not sure which form I should use. I've also heard that the plants need to be fumigated (with what?) and certified (by whom?), and can't include any soil. I'm hoping someone here has experience sending live trees - especially figs - to Hawaii.

 

My smallest tree is in a 3 1/2 gallon pot with a 2 1/2 foot whip. It has a very small side branch that protrudes no wider than the root ball itself. The caliper at the base is 3/4 inch. It currently has no leaves. Because of the soil restrictions, I was thinking of shipping it in a sterile medium such as perlite and/or vermiculite.

 

If this is going to be outrageously expensive, or if the plant is not likely to survive the journey, I might just wait until the tree is big enough for cuttings and send her those. Her husband is pretty handy with plants and trees and I'm sure he could grow cuttings if I can. Was just hoping to save the cuttings to share with you fine folks.

 

Thank you in advance for sharing your experience and advice.