The Rewards & Challenges of Farming with Lily Cabinatan

This week on the Team Lally Real Estate Radio Show, we interview Lily Cabinatan of Top Notch Fruits & Chickens. Lily shares her inspiring journey from education to farming. She discusses who benefits from the food she grows, why she chose Meyer lemon and mango trees, and the joy of giving back to the community. She also highlights the challenges and rewards of farming, the use of natural fertilizers, and the health benefits of fresh, locally grown produce. Plus, she talks about her collaborations with schools to educate students about agriculture and the impact of sustainability efforts.

We also have our Expert We Trust. Duke Kimhan from Hawaii Pacific Property Management will share why they require professional cleaning before taking over a rental and how this step benefits both property owners and tenants.

Who is Lily Cabinatan?

Lily Cabinatan, a proud Wai‘anae High School graduate and retired teacher and administrator with the Hawai‘i Department of Education, has spent the past 20 years deeply connected to the land as a chemical-free farmer in Mā‘ili. Specializing in Meyer lemons and mangoes, she applies sustainable Korean mulch farming techniques and natural fertilizers like chicken manure to cultivate her crops. Lily’s hands-on approach includes using simple water sprays to deter pests, reflecting her dedication to clean, environmentally conscious farming.

Top Notch Fruits & Chickens, founded by Lily in Waiʻanae, Oʻahu, is a sustainable, family-run farm known for producing fresh, chemical-free fruits and pasture-raised eggs. The farm stands out not only for the exceptional quality of its produce but also for its heart-centered mission. Lily donates all of the farm’s modest profits to support the local community—contributing to homebuilding efforts through Waiʻanae Puʻuhonua O Mauka and awarding scholarships to students in Waiʻanae, Nānākuli, and Nānāikapono. Top Notch is more than a farm—it’s a model of how agriculture can nourish both people and purpose, with a legacy Lily hopes to pass on to her grandchildren.

To reach Lily, you may contact her in the following ways:

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]